Just last weekend, we gathered for the Bereaved Mother’s Day Retreat, and I am still holding the tenderness of that day close. The presence, the tears, the laughter, the courage, it all came together in the most beautiful way. It reminded me again just how powerful it is when women come together in grief and love, offering one another space, compassion, and understanding.

And now, with Mother’s Day approaching this Sunday, I know it may stir even more emotions, especially if your heart is carrying the weight of loss.

Whether you’ve experienced the loss of a child, a miscarriage, infertility, the death of your mother, or a complicated relationship with her… your grief is valid. So is your love.
And both deserve to be honored.

If this day feels heavy, you are not alone.
Your feelings are valid. Your motherhood is real.
And your love continues, even through heartbreak.

A Gentle Approach to Mother’s Day

If you’re feeling unsure of how to move through the day, here are a few gentle options to consider:

What Mother's Day Looks Like for Me Now

Since my own mom passed away two and a half years ago, Mother’s Day has felt different, quieter, and at times, bittersweet. For many years, we’d spend the day together in her garden, clearing out the flower beds and getting things ready for new life to bloom. It was simple and beautiful, and I miss those moments more than words can say.

Now, I spend the day tending to my own yard, remembering her as I pull weeds or tuck in new plants. If my daughters and grandkids stop by, and I hope they do, maybe we’ll get our hands a little dirty together. It’s not the same, and it’s still love. It’s still a connection. And it reminds me that honoring our grief can live right alongside joy, laughter, and muddy hands.

A Moment from the Retreat

At the beginning of the day, I shared how hard it can be to speak about your loss, especially in a large group setting. I invited the women to share in whatever way felt right for them: one-on-one, in a small circle, or quietly to themselves. However they chose to honor their child, their memories were welcome here.

Later in the day, one woman, a bereaved grandma there to support her daughter, asked if she could share with the group. She shared how difficult it had been to allow herself to grieve. From a very young age, she was taught to be strong, to hold it all in, and not show emotion. She shared that she hadn’t been sleeping, and in that moment, she realized she’s never truly processed the multiple losses she’d experienced over the years including the most recent, the loss of her grandson. She has been “being strong for others”.

That moment reminded us of all of the power of being seen in our grief.
Of how awareness, comfort, and the courage to be vulnerable can gently begin to unlock grief that’s been held inside far too tightly, for far too long.
It was a moment of deep connection and the beginning of profound healing.

Click Here to Play the Song

Need Someone to Talk To?
I’ve opened a few more spots on my calendar for anyone who might want support this week or next, whether to process, share, or simply be heard. You can schedule a Hope Exploration Session Click Here to Schedule a soft place to land when the emotions feel heavy.

Final Words from My Heart … You are not alone.

This Mother’s Day, you get to define what the day means for you. Whether you spend it in reflection, in remembrance, in rest, or in retreat. It is still motherhood. And you are still a mother.
However, you’re spending this Mother’s Day, I hope you feel held by your memories, your love, and your inner strength.

You don’t have to “be happy.” You don’t need to “feel better.”
Just take a moment to reflect on how you’re feeling. Be gentle with yourself. Be honest.
Even recognizing that you feel lonely, sad, or unsure — that is a step toward healing.

Motherhood is a love that never fades, no matter the circumstances

“My mission is to work with compassionate grieving women to navigate their path of grief, fostering resilience and finding clarity and understanding in their journey. My role as a Grief Resilience Specialist is to support them in reclaiming their freedom to live fully and to cultivate a deeper sense of trust in themselves as they move through the healing process."

When you are ready, here are a few more ways I can empower you on your grief journey:

You can check out my podcast: Female Voice: Life & Loss. Our podcast is dedicated to women from all walks of life, providing a supportive and encouraging platform that addresses the various challenges they face. We aim to offer compassionate guidance, share diverse stories, and equip listeners with practical advice and resources to help them grow, heal, and thrive through every stage of their journey.