New Beginnings - New Series on Grief

Butterfly

Grief. Many of us experience grief in our lives. Sometimes expected, other times it comes out of left field—you never saw it coming.

These days with the coronavirus and self-isolation, we are all grieving what was. Being close to our family, connecting personally, and social engagement is a part of who we are as a society. The need to belong to something—or someone—makes us human.

And for many of us, we have been impacted by the unexpected loss of a family member, friend or colleague, without ever getting the chance to be by their side to say goodbye.

There is no funeral. No memorial service. No human connection with others who can gather together and celebrate the lives of those we lost. We can only grieve the loss with those in our home and through video chats or phone calls.

Grieving is a process. And right now we don’t have the means to support that process.

These are difficult and unknown times and it may be awhile before our traditional means of grieving are available to us to bring closure.

But you don’t have to do this alone.

To support you through your grief process, I’m starting a new series called New Beginnings—from Everyday Being Circle Partner—Michele Ricciardi-Lamberti. Michele lost her husband unexpectedly ten years ago, and through her shared experiences, Michele will guide you towards finding your strength through your grieving process.

GRIEF….is just love with no place to go.

Let’s say that again.  Grief is just love with no place to go.

What do I do with all this love I have? Where do I place it? Enter this funny sounding word—GRIEF. That feeling someone is using your chest for batting practice. That feeling that makes you breakdown and cry at any moment. That feeling that encompasses your thoughts, your dreams, your daily routine.

Hi. My name is Michele and I was there 10 years ago. It was December 20, 2009, and it was a typical day in my house. My husband Rob was working with his dad to get the snow blower working. I was inside getting the gingerbread houses ready to be assembled for my girl scout troop with my girls—ages 7 and 9. That was the day I learned about grief; that was the day my husband died of a massive heart attack.

I was asked to write about the loss of a spouse by my friend, Marisa Jones, in hope of helping those of us that are on this path or have been there, but never really got closure or answers. I will be truthful, I was hesitant. What can I say that will help you? Why is my experience worth sharing? Until recently when four of my friends lost a spouse and called me, I found that what I have to share is helpful.  So as we embark on this journey together, feel free to ask me questions, and tell me your thoughts and feelings. I will do my best to help you.

Until next week …