Navigating Grief: A Personal Journey Through Loss

Understanding the Depth of Grief

As with many others, I too am experiencing a period of intense grief. Pain, hurt, sorrow, loss, love, emptiness—you name it, I'm feeling it. I will be journaling my thoughts, feelings, and any actions I may take to make life without my loved one easier. (11/24/25)

After the loss of a loved one, you will grieve every day. Some days, you have to face the hard grief. It comes with harsh sobs, dry, gritty eyes, and an ache in your chest that feels like it will burst wide open. You may feel physically worn out from carrying the burden of loss.

You can choose to do the hard grief every day if you want. It is your grief. But I often choose the silent grief. Most days, I hold the sobs inside, feeling the ache in my heart. This ache constantly reminds me that the loss is real. I think this approach is better for my sanity. I still have a life to live, even with the pain. Plus, I know my son wouldn’t want me to suffer every day. He wouldn’t want to see me crying all the time. As he was in life, he still is in death. He’d rather see my smile than my tears. So, most days, I choose the silent grief.

The Unique Nature of Grief

We all handle grief differently. No one else can fully understand your grief or the emptiness inside after a devastating loss. Each person has their own way of coping, and what works for one may not work for another. In that period between the silent grief, or the inside grief as I like to call it, and the harsh grief that can't always be contained, I usually find myself turning to food for comfort.

Comfort in Repetition

During this time, I often eat a lot of the same things over and over. It’s like having a banana split every day for two weeks or eating nacho chips and cheese for dinner ten days in a row. Recently, I’ve been binging on chocolate—chocolate cookies, chocolate candy, chocolate ice cream. Last night, I nearly went too far with the creamy chocolate candy, “Ice Cubes.” They were so yummy that I couldn’t stop eating. I fear an addiction may be lurking in my future.

Finding Moments of Joy Amidst the Pain

While grief can feel overwhelming, I strive to find moments of joy. It’s essential to remember that joy and grief can coexist. I often take time to reflect on the happy memories I shared with my son. These memories bring warmth to my heart. They remind me of the love we had and the laughter we shared.

Embracing the Journey

Grief is not a linear process. Some days are better than others. I allow myself to feel whatever comes up. If I need to cry, I cry. If I feel like smiling at a memory, I do. It’s all part of the journey. I remind myself that it’s okay to seek help and talk about my feelings. Sharing my experiences with others can be healing.

Seeking Spiritual Guidance

In moments of deep sorrow, I often turn to spiritual guidance. It provides me comfort and clarity. I find solace in connecting with the Other Side. This connection helps me feel closer to my son. It reassures me that he is still with me in spirit. I believe that communication with the Other Side can offer insights and healing.

The Importance of Self-Care

As I navigate this journey, self-care becomes crucial. I make sure to take time for myself. Whether it’s going for a walk, meditating, or simply enjoying a quiet moment, these practices help me recharge. They remind me to be gentle with myself. Grief is exhausting, and I need to honor my feelings while also caring for my well-being.

Conclusion: Embracing the Journey of Grief

Grief is a complex and personal journey. It’s filled with ups and downs, moments of joy, and deep sorrow. I choose to honor my feelings and embrace the silent grief most days. I find comfort in the memories of my loved one and seek spiritual guidance to help me through. Remember, it’s okay to grieve in your way. You are not alone in this journey.

In the end, I hope to find peace and clarity as I continue to navigate this path. I believe that through love, remembrance, and connection, I can honor my son’s memory while also finding my way forward.

Rest in Peace Michael 06/24/25