As October, Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month, draws to a close, I hold space for all those who have experienced the heartbreaking loss of a pregnancy or infant. This month may be ending, but my commitment in supporting you remains strong. I honor the memory of those little ones who couldn’t stay, and we carry them in our hearts with lasting love and remembrance.

Shakespeare once wrote, “Give sorrow words; the grief that does not speak whispers the o’er-fraught heart and bids it break.” These words remind us that grief is not meant to be hidden or ignored. Rather, it is a process that requires acknowledgment, patience, and compassion.

Grief is complex and often filled with conflicting emotions—sorrow, anger, loneliness, anxiety, even guilt. These emotions can come in waves, making us feel out of control. In an attempt to regain some stability, we may deny our feelings or try to look on the “bright side.” Well-meaning friends and family may suggest that what happened was “God’s will” or “meant to be,” these ideas can sometimes make us feel pressured to hide or cut off our emotions.

Our culture often assumes that if something is painful, it must be avoided. Yet, suppressing these natural responses can be harder on our minds and bodies than going through the emotions. Allowing ourselves to feel each part of the grieving process opens the path to healing.

Grief is not linear, and there is no timeline. Taking the time you need and allowing each emotion to be felt is vital to the healing journey. This may mean leaning into rituals, journaling, or finding solace in nature—whatever helps you feel connected to your grief and your healing process.

Give yourself permission to step away from everyday life to explore and understand your loss, connect with others, and allow space for self-inquiry, spiritual growth, and lasting healing.

The Holiday Season and Grief: Let’s Navigate It Together

As the holiday season approaches, many feel an added layer of grief and anxiety. For some, this may be the first holiday without a loved one; for others, it’s part of a continued journey. Facing special days without those we’ve lost can be challenging, and with some gentle preparation, this season can still hold peace.

In the next newsletter, I’ll be addressing your questions about coping with grief during the holidays or any milestone days. You’re invited to submit questions by simply replying to this email, and I’ll share supportive answers in next month’s issue.

Is there a movie or show you find difficult to watch since your loss? Many of us find that grief shifts our relationship with certain media. Whether it’s a holiday movie or a once-beloved show, these triggers can be challenging to face. If you’d like to share, reply to this email—we’ll explore ways to manage these unexpected moments together.

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Tips for Navigating Grief Through the Holidays

As we enter this season, here are a few reminders for managing grief in ways that honor your needs:

Set Your Own Pace: It’s okay to step back from traditions or events that feel overwhelming. Listen to what feels right for you.
Honor Your Loved One: Light a candle, place an ornament, or share a memory in their honor—small acts can keep their presence alive in your heart.
Reach Out for Support: Allow yourself to lean on friends, family, or a support group. Grief often becomes lighter when shared.

Upcoming Events to Find Comfort and Support

The holiday season can bring unique challenges for those of us navigating loss. That’s why I’m offering supportive events, both online and in-person, to help you feel connected, understood, and empowered through this time.

Join us for these meaningful gatherings:

Wednesday, November 13th at 7:00 PM — Online Event: Find solace and support as we explore compassionate ways to navigate grief during the holidays.
Tuesday, December 3rd at 6:30 PM — In-Person Event, Edwardsville, IL: Gather with others who understand, as we discuss practical tools and heart-centered strategies for healing through the holiday season.

4-Week Online Workshop Series: Navigating Holiday Grief with Grace and Compassion
Dates: Mondays, November 25; December 2, 9 & 16
This interactive series will offer weekly insights, guided reflections, and supportive community connections to help you move through the holidays with greater peace.

Stay Connected!
Follow me on social media to be the first to know when registration opens for these events:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LivingAfterGrief/
Instagram: @livingaftergrief

Together, let’s create a compassionate space for healing and hope.

Until Next Month

As we hold space for both remembrance and hope, know that you are supported every step of the way. Whether through the memory of a loved one or in the care you extend to yourself, we honor your strength and resilience. Thank you for allowing me to be part of your healing journey.

“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: