The Sisters discuss how it's so common for people to avoid calling grievers for the special days and anniversaries that honor their loved ones and the most common response they get is "I didn't want to make you feel bad." But what's so widely misunderstood is that grievers feel bad every minute of every day without their loved one. &nbsp;What grievers want most is to be able to talk about their loved ones without all of the unsolicited advice given to them by others. &nbsp;   &nbsp;

I Didn't Want to Make You Feel Bad

Processing the pain from grief means allowing yourself to feel the pain, honestly communicating about how bad it feels and acting. &nbsp;You must be an active participant in your grief and come to your own aide because there is no one out there who can save you. &nbsp;You must be your own hero. You cannot get over the pain that is a true misconception, you have to go through the pain to get to the other side, which is recovery. &nbsp;As soon as I started to allow myself to feel the pain and the tears to come, I started healing. &nbsp;I also had to tell my truth about how bad I was feeling and not hide from my real feelings. &nbsp; More importantly you must use your healing tools for the rest of your life. &nbsp;Grief will never be one and done. &nbsp;

Life Is Not Sunshine And Rainbows

Dealing Effectively With Your Grief Is The First Step Grief is an inevitable part of life, and at some point, we all experience the pain of losing someone or something we hold dear. Whether it's the passing of a loved one, the end of a relationship, or a major life change, grief can be overwhelming and difficult to navigate. However, it is crucial to understand that dealing with grief effectively is the first step towards healing and finding a sense of peace.  Acknowledge Your Feelings The first and most crucial step in dealing with grief is to acknowledge your feelings. It's common to feel a wide range of emotions such as sadness, anger, guilt, or even numbness. Don't try to suppress these emotions; instead, allow yourself to experience them fully. Give yourself permission to cry, vent, or seek solace in the presence of friends and family. Remember, it's okay to grieve, and there is no right or wrong way to feel.  Seek Support Grief can be an isolating experience, but you don't have to go through it alone. Reach out to your support network, whether it's friends, family, or a grief support group. Talking about your feelings can provide immense relief and comfort during this challenging time. Surrounding yourself with people who care about you can help you feel less alone and more understood.  Take Care of Yourself Amidst grief, self-care often takes a backseat, but it's essential to take care of yourself physically and emotionally. Make sure you're getting enough rest, eating well-balanced meals, and engaging in gentle exercise. Avoid turning to unhealthy coping mechanisms like excessive drinking or isolating yourself from the world. Remember, caring for yourself is not selfish but necessary for your healing process.  Create Rituals Rituals can provide structure and comfort during times of grief. Whether it's lighting a candle in memory of your loved one, writing in a journal, or visiting a special place, these rituals can be a way to connect with your feelings and memories. Additionally, creating new rituals can also help you move forward and honor the person or thing you've lost.  Seek Professional Help If you find yourself struggling to cope with your grief, don't hesitate to seek professional help. A therapist or counselor experienced in grief and loss can provide valuable guidance and support tailored to your specific needs. They can help you navigate the complex emotions and challenges that come with grief and assist you in finding effective coping strategies.  Give Yourself Time Healing from grief is not a linear process and can't be rushed. Be patient with yourself and allow the healing to take its course. There is no timeline for grief, and everyone's journey is unique. It's okay to have good days and bad days; it's all part of the healing process.  Remember the Good Times While grief can be painful, it's essential to remember the good times and the joyous memories you shared with the person or thing you've lost. Celebrate their life and the impact they had on yours. Embracing the positive aspects can bring a sense of comfort and peace amidst the pain. Dealing effectively with grief is a challenging journey, but it's also a transformative one. By acknowledging your feelings, seeking support, taking care of yourself, creating rituals, seeking professional help when needed, giving yourself time, and cherishing the memories, you can begin the healing process and gradually find a path towards acceptance and renewal. Remember, it's okay to grieve, and in time, you can emerge stronger and more resilient from this experience. &nbsp; &nbsp; https://linktr.ee/TheGriefSchool

The First Step In Dealing With Grief

Your Grief Pain Will Change You &nbsp;  Introduction Grief is a deeply personal and emotional experience that touches all of us at some point in our lives. 💔 Losing a loved one or experiencing significant loss can be overwhelming and can evoke intense emotions. In this blog post, we'll explore how your grief pain has the potential to change you, shaping your perspectives, emotions, and personal growth. &nbsp;  Embracing the Complexity of Grief Grief pain is not a simple emotion; it's a multifaceted experience that can leave a lasting impact. It's essential to recognize that grieving is a natural and valid response to loss. Allowing yourself to feel and process the emotions that come with grief is an important step in the healing journey. 🌊 Grief can bring forth an array of emotions such as sadness, anger, guilt, and even relief. Embracing the complexity of these feelings can lead to a deeper understanding of yourself and your relationship with the person you've lost. 🌈 &nbsp;  The Transformative Nature of Grief Grief pain has the power to change you in profound ways. As you navigate through your grief, you may find yourself reevaluating your priorities, relationships, and life's purpose. 🌟 The loss may prompt you to reassess your values and make meaningful changes in your life. While grief is undoubtedly challenging, it can also be a catalyst for personal growth and self-discovery. By facing your grief pain, you open yourself up to the possibility of transformation and new beginnings. 🌱 &nbsp;  Navigating the Ups and Downs Grief is not a linear process. It's a journey with ups and downs, moments of strength and vulnerability. Your grief pain may come in waves, and some days may feel more challenging than others. It's essential to be patient with yourself and allow yourself to grieve at your own pace. 🌞 Remember that healing takes time and that it's okay to seek support from friends, family, or professionals during your grief journey. By embracing the fluctuations of grief, you give yourself the space to heal and grow. 🤗 &nbsp;  Finding Meaning and Resilience Amidst grief pain, you may find opportunities for resilience and finding meaning in your experiences. 💪 Some individuals channel their grief into positive actions, such as supporting others in similar situations or starting meaningful projects in memory of their loved ones. Finding a sense of purpose and meaning in the face of loss can help you navigate through grief pain with a renewed sense of hope and purpose. 💕 &nbsp;  Conclusion Your grief pain is a unique and transformative experience that can change you in ways you may not expect. Embracing the complexity of grief, navigating its ups and downs, and finding resilience and meaning can lead to personal growth and healing. 🌷💖 As you allow yourself to grieve and process your emotions, remember that there is no right or wrong way to grieve. Each individual's grief journey is unique, and it's essential to be compassionate and patient with yourself during this time. 🌈💕 https://linktr.ee/TheGriefSchool

Your Grief Pain

&nbsp;  Jeremy Clarkin is a featured speaker at the Life After Loss Virtual Retreat, where he'll share his inspiring story of resilience and hope. Don't miss his powerful message of healing and transformation. https://celebratelegacy.net/retreat &nbsp;  Hey there, and welcome to our podcast! Today, we have an incredible guest with an inspiring story to share. Meet Jeremy Clarkin, a father of three girls, a retired Marine, and a talented self-taught artist. Jeremy has been through some really tough times, and he's here to tell us about his journey.  At one point, Jeremy faced a moment that many of us can't imagine. He'll share his story of trying to end his own life, but thanks to the support of people like you and me, he's still here today. It's a powerful reminder of the strength that can be found in community and connection.  Jeremy's on a mission, and it's an important one. He's seen too many of his fellow veterans struggle with what he calls "so-called coping mechanisms." But he believes there's a better way, a way of hope and healing. Through his art and coaching, he's helping veterans paint away their pain and find a positive path forward.  His mission is clear: he wants to show as many veterans as possible that they have the power to turn their trauma into something constructive, something that can make the world a better place. So, join us as we sit down with Jeremy Clarkin and dive into his remarkable journey of resilience, recovery, and the mission that's changing lives. &nbsp;  I've lost way too many brothers to all of these so-called coping mechanisms, and I’m on a mission to show them that there is another way. There is hope. &nbsp;  Hello, I’m Jeremy Clarkin. Girl dad (x3), a Marine (Retired), and a self-taught artist with an unwavering passion for coaching veterans on how to paint their pain away. I discovered my talent after a suicide attempt and being in an inpatient facility.  &nbsp;  His Mission  Jeremy mission is to help as many veterans as possible, realize that they have the ability to use their trauma to impact the world around them in a constructive way. &nbsp;  &nbsp;  Jeremy Clarkin is a featured speaker at the Life After Loss Virtual Retreat, where he'll share his inspiring story of resilience and hope. Don't miss his powerful message of healing and transformation. https://celebratelegacy.net/retreat &nbsp;

Tattered Soul Creative Part 1

Tattered Soul Creative Part 2

Ken Guidroz will be a special speaker at the Life After Loss Virtual Retreat. He's going to share his wisdom and experiences with us. You won't want to miss it!  https://celebratelegacy.net/retreat  In my recent podcast episode of "Letters to My Son in Prison," I had the honor of talking with Ken Guidroz about a remarkable story of forgiveness. This conversation was truly special, as Ken told me about how he and his son found forgiveness after a very serious mistake.  During our talk, there was a moment that stood out. Ken mentioned someone saying, "I just couldn't live with myself if something happened to him." These words were like a secret signal, and they stopped the conversation in its tracks.  In this podcast episode, we dive into Ken's story and how he and his son went through a tough journey to find forgiveness. It's a story about healing and the powerful love between a father and son. Join me as we explore this emotional and inspiring journey. Ken Guidroz will be a special speaker at the Life After Loss Virtual Retreat. He's going to share his wisdom and experiences with us. You won't want to miss it!  https://celebratelegacy.net/retreat   PROLOGUE  I did not want my son to move back home.  Lucas had hit another rough patch. He’d lost another job, gotten kicked out of his girlfriend’s apartment, and was ghosting his AA sponsor. Now he needed a place to stay, so the texts to his mother started dinging like the service bell at lunchtime at Jerry’s Deli. He was twenty-seven.  “Nope, I don’t think we should let him move back in,” I told my wife, Joyce. Then her phone dinged again.  Ha! He sure ain’t gonna text me, I thought. He remembers my little ditty:  “No mon, no fun, your son. How sad, too bad, your dad.”  I knew how this move back home would unfold. He’d play the game for a few days—get up on time, help around the house, and look for a job—but soon enough his bedroom door would be closed until ten in the morning, and the knobs on his video controller would be rubbed to a shine. Then the crumbs would appear—oh, those crumbs. I’d see them on the white-tiled kitchen counter—crumbs that a normal, sober, trying-to-go-unnoticed, trying-not-to-get-kicked-out-ofyour-parents’-home young man would never leave so mockingly visible.  Joyce, with her mama bear in full swing, said, “I know…it’s not perfect. But what’s he gonna do? Where’s he gonna stay?”  I thought, It’s not our job to figure out where our twenty-seven-year-old son stays.  Then, as if she’d read my mind, she said, “What if we lay things out super clear? Like when he has to be home and has to have a job by, and that we’ll do random drug tests.”  “And I become the bad cop?” I whined. “No way. I can’t do that again, honey. I’m the one stuck here all day and you get to go to your job at school. I’m the one who’s gonna see his slide. I’m the one who’s gonna hear those ridiculous excuses. And I’m the one who’s gonna have to endure those wretched crumbs on the counter.”  Joyce ran her fingers over the worn grooves of our distressed-oak kitchen table.  “If we’re not careful,” I said softly, “he’s gonna drag us down with him.”  Even as I said it, though, I knew that “us” was not the real concern here. Joyce wasn’t concerned about “us” and, honestly, neither was I. In thirty-plus years of marriage, we had never uttered the D-word, or even contemplated it. But this was a new level. Losing a son to opioids tested us like nothing ever had. We’d started doubting each other, snapping at each other, and misreading intentions. She’d lend him some money and I’d say, “You’re enabling.” I’d turn away from a need and she’d say, “You’re too removed.”   Ken Guidroz will be a special speaker at the Life After Loss Virtual Retreat. He's going to share his wisdom and experiences with us. You won't want to miss it!

Ken Guidroz Interview Part 1

Ken Guidroz Interview Part 2

Ken Guidroz Interview Part 3

"Healing Erika: The Silent Depths of Grief" Hello, everyone, and welcome back to another episode of our podcast. Today, we’re diving deep into a story of resilience, self-awareness, and the journey towards healing. It’s a tale about my past client, Erika, and the silent depths of grief. Let me start by setting the stage. Imagine a vivacious, spirited individual, who despite carrying the weight of two immense losses in her life, couldn’t quite put a finger on the nature of her pain. That's Erika. Referred to me by another client, Erika initially didn’t believe she was grappling with grief. She was under the impression that what she felt was mere depression. Isn't it interesting? Sometimes, our feelings can be so overwhelming and tangled that we can't see them for what they truly are. That was Erika’s state of mind. She assumed therapy could be a way out, but traditional methods didn’t give her the solace she sought. Fast forward six months, a world grappling with a pandemic, Erika reached out again. There’s something about global crises – they hold up a mirror to our personal ones. And this time, together, we embarked on a journey of what I call "heart work". Erika's journey was one of self-realization. As we peeled back the layers, it became clear that she was battling profound grief. The loss she had experienced wasn’t just an emotional void; it was affecting her everyday life, her decisions, her perspective on the future What’s crucial here is the acknowledgment that grief doesn't have a one-size-fits-all solution. What works for one might not work for another. And while therapy can provide tools, true healing comes from within, from the "heart work". As we navigated the sessions virtually amidst the pandemic, it became more than just therapy. It was a lifeline. Erika wasn’t just dealing with her personal losses but also the shared sense of loss and uncertainty that the world was feeling. It was during these months that Erika learned the power of acceptance, the significance of acknowledging pain, and the strength in vulnerability. She not only worked through her grief but also reshaped her perspective on life and its many trials. Erika's journey is a testament to the fact that sometimes, we might not recognize the source of our pain. But with persistence, self-reflection, and the right guidance, healing is within reach. Today, Erika stands tall, not as someone who has forgotten her losses, but as someone who has made peace with them. She’s a beacon of hope for all who feel consumed by emotions they can't name. To everyone listening, remember, it's okay to seek help. It's okay to admit you don’t have all the answers. And it’s okay to do the heart work. Because, at the end of the day, that's where true healing begins. Thank you for joining me today. I hope Erika's story resonates with some of you and brings you hope. Stay strong, stay connected, and until next time, keep healing.

"Healing Erika: The Silent Depths of Grief" Not My Sister!

Show Notes for "Surviving the Holidays While Grieving" Episode Title: Embracing the Holidays After Loss Host: Sharon Summary: In this episode, Sharon talks about the challenges of facing holidays while grieving. She emphasizes the importance of acknowledging the holidays are coming and that they will be different without our loved ones. Sharon shares personal stories and offers guidance on how to navigate this difficult time, suggesting ways to adapt or create new traditions. Key Points:  Acknowledging the Holidays: Understanding that holidays will be different and potentially challenging without our loved ones. Inventory of Traditions: Sharon encourages listeners to take a mental inventory of holiday traditions and decide which ones they can bear. Creating New Traditions: Suggestions for starting new traditions that honor the memory of the loved ones we've lost. Emotional Check-In: Importance of staying in tune with one's emotions during the holidays and allowing oneself to feel them fully. Surviving the Holidays eBook: Sharon has written an eBook on this topic, which she mentions is available for download.  Episode Highlights:  Sharon shares how the absence of a child or any loved one can deeply affect holiday experiences. She advises against trying to 'muscle through' the holidays and instead suggests embracing the changes. The importance of deciding which traditions to keep and which to change or let go of is discussed. Sharon shares her own experience of changing traditions after the loss of a loved one.  For Listeners:  Links to Sharon's eBook "Surviving the Holidays" and her website for further resources. Information on how to book an appointment with Sharon for personalized guidance on handling the holidays while grieving. Encouragement and support for those struggling with loss during the holiday season.  Closing Thoughts: Sharon acknowledges the profound impact of grief during the holidays and offers a compassionate approach to dealing with it. She encourages listeners to be true to their feelings, to consider changing traditions, and to find ways to honor their loved ones during these times. &nbsp;  https://beacons.ai/thegriefschool

Surviving The Holidays While Grieving

Podcast Title: Have You Guys Ever Heard of Dia de los de los MUTOs The Day of the Dead? Overview:  Sharon explores Dia de los Muertos, a cultural event distinct from Halloween, focusing on its traditions, meanings, and personal connections.  Introduction:  Sharon clarifies that Dia de los Muertos is not the Mexican version of Halloween and sets the context for the discussion, emphasizing the differences between the two events.  Main Discussion:  Dia de los Muertos, occurring in early November, is characterized by vibrant celebrations, honoring the dead with respect, love, and longing. The tradition involves elaborate makeup, costumes, parades, parties, and offerings to deceased loved ones. Sharon reflects on the significance of the celebration in Mexican culture and how it's observed with joy and respect for the dead.  Cultural Significance:  The podcast delves into the Day of the Dead as a celebration of both life and death, remembering and celebrating loved ones who have passed away. Discussions about the holiday's origins, its widespread observance in Latin America, and its colorful symbols, including skulls and skeletons. Sharon invites listeners to contribute insights about specific traditions, like the importance of orange marigolds and skull masks.  Personal Connection and Reflection:  Sharon shares her limited personal connection to the holiday and contrasts it with her experiences of All Saints Day in the Catholic religion. Reflections on the burial culture in New Orleans and traditions of caring for gravesites during All Saints Day. Sharon describes the tradition of cleaning and decorating grave sites, moving away weeds, and placing flowers and wreaths.  Family Traditions and Celebrations:  Sharon recounts her family's tradition of honoring deceased loved ones by placing flowers on graves, a practice cherished and continued by younger family members. Discussion on the recognition of All Saints Day as a state holiday in Louisiana, and how it includes visiting grave sites and remembering loved ones.  Honoring Loved Ones:  Sharon emphasizes the importance of honoring and celebrating deceased loved ones, suggesting various ways people can keep their memories alive. She encourages listeners to find their own ways to honor their loved ones, whether through traditional practices or personal rituals.  Closing Remarks:  Sharon concludes the podcast by inviting listeners to share their experiences and traditions, and offers resources for further support in celebrating and remembering loved ones.   https://beacons.ai/thegriefschool

Dia De Los Muertos

Podcast Show Notes: "Forever Changed: Navigating Family Dynamics After Loss" with Sharon Episode Overview In this heartfelt episode, Sharon delves into the profound impact of loss on family dynamics. She shares personal stories about how the passing of key family members, especially her father, reshaped her family's traditions and bonds. This episode offers a deep exploration into the complexities of grief and the process of creating new traditions. Key Points Discussed  Personal Reflections on Loss: Sharon shares her experiences of losing her father, Austin, and Donovan, highlighting how each loss uniquely affected her and her siblings. The Role of Family Traditions: The importance of family gatherings, especially during holidays, and how these traditions were central to their family life. Sharon reminisces about her father's role in these gatherings and his love for cooking. Impact of Loss on Family Unity: The episode discusses the gradual changes in family gatherings post the loss of Sharon's father and other family members. Sharon reflects on how the absence of the 'glue' of the family led to evolving traditions. Personal Stories of Adaptation: Sharon shares how different family members, including herself, coped and adapted to the new reality. This includes how her sister Erica started new traditions with her husband. Grappling with Double Grief: Sharon talks about the dual aspect of grieving – losing a loved one and the simultaneous loss of cherished family traditions. Theories on Family Dynamics Post-Loss: Sharon proposes theories on why families change their traditions following the loss of a central figure and how individual changes contribute to this evolution. Creating New Traditions: Emphasizing the importance of acknowledging grief and starting new traditions that honor lost loved ones while catering to the evolving needs of the family. Personal Reflection and Advice: Sharon shares her own struggles with these changes and offers advice on navigating these complex emotions and situations.  Additional Resources  "Forever Changed" Program: Sharon talks about her program designed to help others navigate their grief. One-on-One Consultations: An invitation for listeners to have personal conversations with Sharon about coping with loss and creating new traditions. Online Community Support: Information on joining Sharon's Facebook group and following her on Instagram for continued support and community engagement.  Closing Thoughts Sharon concludes with a message of empathy and understanding for those experiencing similar challenges. She encourages listeners to embrace their emotions, find new ways to honor their memories, and connect with others for support. &nbsp;  https://beacons.ai/thegriefschool

When You Loose The Glue That Held The Family Together

Show Notes for "What If This Grief Was Meant For You?" Episode Title: Embracing Grief as a Transformative Journey In this powerful episode, we explore the provocative question: What if grief was meant for you? Sharon delves into the notion of grief not as a burden to be escaped, but as a path towards growth and understanding. Key Discussions:  Redefining Grief: The episode begins with a thought-provoking introduction challenging the traditional perception of grief. It suggests embracing grief instead of avoiding it, proposing that the true path to healing is through confronting our pain. Societal Misconceptions of Grief: A critical look at how society often wrongly interprets grief, urging people to move on quickly and labeling expressions of sorrow as inappropriate or excessive. Grief's Purpose: Sharon shares insights into the natural process of grieving and its purpose in our lives, including how even children instinctively understand and navigate grief. Real Stories and Expert Insights: Throughout the episode, real-life anecdotes are interwoven with expert opinions, illustrating the varied and deeply personal nature of grief. Dealing with Complex Emotions: Discussion on the complexity of emotions in grief, acknowledging that it’s possible to grieve someone despite mixed feelings about them, including anger or resentment. Accepting and Nurturing Grief: Sharon encourages listeners to accept and nurture their grief, seeing it as a natural and necessary process, and to find ways to honor their lost loved ones. Grief as a Catalyst for Change: The episode emphasizes how each loss reshapes us, not necessarily for better or worse, but certainly differently. It advocates for recognizing grief as a significant, life-altering experience. Action Steps in Grief: Practical advice is offered on taking action during grief, such as acknowledging and allowing emotions and finding ways to move through the pain.  Additional Resources:  "Forever Changed" Program: Information on a program designed to assist individuals in moving beyond grief. One-on-One Consultation: Opportunities for personal consultations to discuss grief and coping mechanisms. Support Links: Directions to join support groups and engage with a community of individuals experiencing similar journeys.  Conclusion: Sharon wraps up the episode with a message of solidarity and understanding, emphasizing the shared experience of grief and the potential for growth and transformation it holds. Listeners are invited to explore further resources and join the support community. &nbsp;  https://beacons.ai/thegriefschool

What If This Grief Was Meant For You

Show Notes for Sharon's Podcast Interview with Client Chris: Journey Through Grief Episode Title: A Personal Tale of Triumph Over Grief with Chris In this episode, Sharon sits down with her former client, Chris, who recently completed her grief program. Chris openly shares her journey through grief and how the program helped her navigate this challenging time in her life. Key Topics Discussed:  Chris’s Initial Search for Support: Chris talks about feeling alone after losing her family members and husband. She shares her struggle to find a program that resonated with her, including her experiences with psychologists and other grief programs. Finding Comfort in Sharon's Approach: Chris describes her relief upon connecting with Sharon, emphasizing the personal touch and understanding she felt from their very first conversation. The Program’s Impact and Methodology: Chris reflects on the pivotal moments in the program that helped her see progress. She highlights the importance of the program's structure, which allowed her to progress at her own pace, and the value of having tangible tasks and homework. Emotional Challenges and Breakthroughs: A significant part of the discussion revolves around Chris’s emotional challenges during the program. She shares a particularly tough exercise involving writing a letter to her father and how it led to a freeing experience. The Role of Spirituality in Grief: Chris speaks about her spiritual journey and how her faith in God provided comfort and guidance during her grieving process. The Importance of Leaning into Emotions: Sharon and Chris discuss the importance of allowing oneself to feel and process emotions, with Chris sharing a personal experience where she let herself lean into her grief in a public setting. Gratitude and Moving Forward: Chris expresses her gratitude for Sharon's guidance and the program's role in her healing process. She emphasizes how the program helped her reclaim parts of herself and move towards a positive future.  Conclusion: Sharon wraps up the episode by thanking Chris for her openness and sharing her journey. She encourages listeners who might be struggling with grief to consider joining the "Forever Changed" grief program, offering them a chance to have a transformative experience like Chris.  https://beacons.ai/thegriefschool

Interview with Chris

Sharon and Erica debunk the myth of the five stages of grief and how they do not apply to grievers. &nbsp;The sages of grief were developed by Elisabeth Kubler-Ross for people in the process of dying not for the grievers who were left behind.&nbsp;

Sharon and Erica

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