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Embracing the season of grief
Fall is a season of letting go. We say goodbye to the beauty of summer — the flowers, the green leaves and the warmth of longer days — and gently welcome a new season. The trees offer us a beautiful reflection of grief. Before they let go of their leaves, they surround us with breathtaking colors. Then, one by one, the leaves fall, allowing the trees to rest, deepen their roots and prepare for a new season.
For me, fall beautifully represents the journey of grief. As we walk through the season of grief, we, too, reflect on what was beautiful and precious. We remember the people we love, the moments we shared, the laughter, the traditions and the memories that have become part of who we are.
Sometimes, however, those memories can also bring feelings of regret, guilt and the painful “what ifs.” We may find ourselves thinking about what we wish we had done differently or what we wish we could change. While we cannot change what happened, we can choose what we carry forward.
Perhaps this season is an invitation to gently let go of some of the heavy things we have been carrying — the guilt, the regrets, the questions without answers — and make room for the things that remind us of love.
Because love does not end when someone dies. The relationship changes, but the love remains.
As you move through this season, consider giving yourself permission to remember. Look through photographs. Listen to a favorite song. Prepare a treasured recipe. Visit a meaningful place. Tell a story about your loved one. Light a candle. Write a letter to the person you miss. Spend time with someone who understands.
Most importantly, allow yourself to receive comfort in knowing that you were loved, you are loved, and the love you shared continues to be a part of your life.
Grief is not about forgetting. It is about learning how to carry the love and the memories forward as we create a new life balance.
Like the trees, we may need seasons of rest. We may need to deepen our roots, lean on others and give ourselves permission to grow at our own pace. There is no timetable for grief, and there is no “right” way to grieve.
As we enter this season, I invite you to ask yourself:
What do I want to gently release?
What do I want to hold close?
What brings me comfort, peace and even moments of joy?
How can I honor the love that will always be a part of my story?
At COJ, we are honored to walk alongside you. I hope you will join us at
one of our many adult grief support sessions this month as we journey together toward hope, strength and healing. You do not have to walk this journey alone.
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