Finding Gratitude In Times of Grief
At St. Charles, our role within our community provides us a unique insight into how precious and valuable life is – and also, how very challenging it can be. As we help our neighbors honor their loved ones with custom, one-of-a-kind monuments paying tribute to their lives and legacies, we see firsthand the overwhelming love that people have for their loved ones. In addition, we also understand the pain, confusion and grief that accompany their losses.
When we lose a loved one, of course it’s a devastating and extremely painful moment. Therefore, it’s natural to focus only on how much we’ve lost. How will you move on without them, and their priceless contributions to your life, by your side? How can you begin to make sense of what happened? Is there any way to work through the complexity of emotions – some of which you’ve never experienced before? In this post, we’ll discuss how to heal from loss by consciously incorporating gratitude into your life.
Healing From Loss with Gratitude
Even in the midst of overwhelming adversity, we implore you to try waking up each morning and trying to consciously choose gratitude. Of course, it might feel absolutely impossible. You may not feel particularly grateful at all. We certainly understand. However, we also know it’s possible to embrace gratitude-oriented practices that can help you cope with loss. As we’ve learned over the years, gratitude is one of the greatest healing tools available.
Yes, it may feel difficult to have a positive outlook when you’re walking through one of the darkest and most difficult chapters of your life. However, those moments are when gratitude is most important, and often most beneficial.
How to Find Gratitude During Times of Grief
Take note of the kindnesses you see, however small.
Sometimes, it’s the smallest and most effortless acts that can be the most significant or impactful. And you may not even realize how often they’re happening around you – unless you look for them.
Many times, after losing a loved one, those left behind become isolated. They turn down invitations, prefer staying home, sometimes experience insomnia and have low energy. But, it’s important to remember that you’re not alone – and soon, you’ll have a list of kind acts to remind you of that.
Every day, think of three specific things you’re grateful for.
Research shows that focusing on what we’re thankful for improves sleep, increases positive emotions, and even strengthens the immune system. In this moment, what are you thankful for? Ask yourself that same question when you wake up tomorrow morning.
Focus on what you have – even the tiny, everyday things that you may take for granted. By increasing your awareness of your blessings, you’ll find yourself immeasurably fortunate rather than a tragic victim of circumstance.
Extend small kindnesses to others.
In the weeks and months after losing a loved one, you may feel as if you’re mindlessly drifting through life. It can be exhausting to deal with the shock and disorientation of death while having to establish new routines without the person who meant so much to you.
One important way to keep their legacy alive is by passing on love to others. Write a thank you note or send a text or email to someone who has supported you. Volunteer at an organization that meant a lot to your loved one or attend a grief support group. Hold a door open for a stranger. Pick up the phone and call a friend you haven’t talked to in a long time. Small gestures have a way of boosting not only the receiver – but also the giver.
Conclusion – St. Charles Monuments
Expressing gratitude can keep you afloat during hard times, and help you rise above the loss in a healthy way. Gratitude gives hope, and with hope comes the reminder that life is a gift. We consider ourselves much more than a service provider of memorial necessities. At St. Charles Monuments, we work tirelessly to provide our neighbors with the compassion and guidance they need to navigate a difficult period with more ease and peace of mind.
