Why do obituaries feel so important to us?They serve as a tribute, a record of someone’s life, and a way to honor their legacy. What makes a well-written obituary stand out?It’s personal, engaging, and captures the essence of who the person was. How have obituaries changed over time?They’ve become more personal, sometimes humorous, and often…… Continue reading Tips for Writing an Obituary
Category: Good to Know
The Unexpected Ways Grief Shows Up—Because It’s Never Just Tears and Sad Music
Nobody warns you that grief isn’t just crying at the funeral and missing them on anniversaries. No, grief is a sneaky little bastard that shows up when you least expect it, hits you like a freight train, and leaves you standing there like, Seriously? Right now? 1. Triggers—A.K.A. Grief’s Favorite Party TrickYou think you’re fine.…… Continue reading The Unexpected Ways Grief Shows Up—Because It’s Never Just Tears and Sad Music
BOOK: The Rest We Deserve: Grief and the Lessons of Winter.
Grief has a way of making us feel like we must keep moving, as though stopping for even a moment might let it consume us entirely. But that’s not how nature works, and it’s not how we work either. Just as the seasons shift, there’s a time for everything – even rest. Especially rest. Winter…… Continue reading BOOK: The Rest We Deserve: Grief and the Lessons of Winter.
Confronting Fears with a Terminal Diagnosis
Confronting fears amidst a terminal diagnosis may seem daunting, but it holds profound benefits. Not only for individuals facing this challenging journey, but also those grieving from a loss. First, let’s look at how confronting our fears can help those with a terminal diagnosis: Empowerment Through Acceptance: Accepting the reality empowers individuals to shape their…… Continue reading Confronting Fears with a Terminal Diagnosis
Planning an At-Home Funeral
Planning an at-home funeral involves several steps. Here’s a general guide: Check Local Regulations: Verify local laws and regulations regarding home funerals. Some places may have specific requirements or restrictions. Obtain Necessary Permits: If required, obtain the necessary permits for home burial or cremation. This may involve contacting local authorities or health departments. Prepare the…… Continue reading Planning an At-Home Funeral
How to Balance Hope and Realistic Expectation
Balancing hope and realistic expectations when diagnosed with a terminal illness is a delicate and personal process. Here are some strategies to navigate this challenging situation: Open Communication: Talk to Healthcare Providers: Engage in open and honest conversations with healthcare providers. Understand the prognosis, potential treatments, and the expected trajectory of the illness. Insist on…… Continue reading How to Balance Hope and Realistic Expectation
Caregivers: How to Navigate the Waves of Helplessness
Witnessing a loved one’s decline from a terminal illness can be an overwhelming journey. Here are six tips to navigate the waves of helplessness with compassion: 1. Embrace Your Feelings: It’s okay to feel helpless. Allow yourself to experience the full range of emotions without judgment. Embracing vulnerability is a courageous step in the healing…… Continue reading Caregivers: How to Navigate the Waves of Helplessness
How to Help a Child Cope when a Loved One is Terminally Ill
Coping with the impact of a loved one’s terminal illness on children in the family requires a delicate and supportive approach: 1. Open Communication: – Honesty: Be honest with children in an age-appropriate manner about the situation. Use simple language and answer their questions with sensitivity. – Encourage Expression: Create a safe space…… Continue reading How to Help a Child Cope when a Loved One is Terminally Ill
Being Honest is NOT Giving UP!
Being honest with your diagnosis when facing a terminal illness is crucial for several reasons: 1. Effective Communication: Understanding the Reality: Being honest allows both the individual and their loved ones to understand the gravity of the situation. It provides clarity and avoids misunderstandings. 2. Emotional Connection: Building Trust: Openness fosters trust among family members…… Continue reading Being Honest is NOT Giving UP!
Is There Closure in Grief?
Several factors contribute to the perception that closure is elusive in grief: 1. Continuing Connection: Grief experts emphasize the concept of continuing bonds. Rather than closing a chapter, individuals find ways to maintain a connection with the deceased through memories, rituals, and ongoing relationships. 2. Nonlinear Nature of Grief: Grief is not a…… Continue reading Is There Closure in Grief?