New Year's Resolutions
I RESOLVE TO ...
Not place time limits on my grief; it will take as long as it takes.
Acknowledge my grief as my own—that it is as individual as I am—and will take shape in its own unique way.
Be mindful of the need for flexibility when it comes to the expectations of others (and myself).
Not be pressured by “shoulds.”
Cut myself some slack when I am not as productive as I might like, such as when I behave in ways uncharacteristic of my usual self or when I simply “don’t care.”
Accept that others may not understand my pain, and it is probably not realistic to expect that of them. (Until one has walked the path, how can one know the terrain?)
Express my feelings without guilt, and not apologize for tears.
Be grateful for concerned others who willingly just listen.
Recognize that my acceptance of assistance and support of others allows them the blessing of giving.
Forgive those who say or do that which feels hurtful, recognizing that unkindness is not intended.
Extend to myself the same grace and patience I would to others, were they in my situation.
Find some little way each day to begin to reinvest in life, in an effort to move toward hope and a sense of purpose.
Continue to speak my loved one’s name, tell our stories, and embrace my memories.
Thanks to AfterTalk and Hospice of the Red River Valley for sharing this information.
