Tag: grief

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Grief

When Your Soul Is Aching, But You Don’t Even Know Why

Have you ever had those days when you felt as though something was missing but you just couldn’t figure out what it was?

It’s as though there’s a certain emptiness inside of you, something almost similar to pain, but you can’t even pinpoint where it’s coming from.

So you shrug it off and start your day. You grab your coffee to perk you up and you go to work.

Along the way, you see people also going along with their lives. Some look cheerful and happily talking to someone on their mobile phones. Others look almost angry. It’s as though they already carry the burden of the whole world that early in the day.

But there are some whose eyes look quite familiar.
No, it’s not that you knew them personally. But somehow, you pick up a similar vibe from them. It’s almost as if you can understand each other telepathically.

“I know how you feel. But we both don’t have the words to say what we’re going through.”

Of all creatures, human beings are unique.

This is because it isn’t enough for us to simply survive. Even if we can have the assurance that all our physical needs will be provided for, that would never guarantee our well-being.

We don’t become satisfied merely with material things. We also have to be satisfied within.

The problem is that most of us are not aware of these needs.

Society tells us how strong we should be, and how we shouldn’t pay attention to any negative thoughts.

Thoughts? But we hardly have any.

All we have are ideas spinning around our heads, ready to come out every time we need them for “work”.

Work. Work. And only more work!

And then we go home and sleep like robots.

When we wake up the next day, we live like zombies all over again.

Why do we live like zombies?

Why are we so afraid to cry?

Perhaps if we allowed ourselves to cry more, we could have known which parts of us bled terribly within. We could have identified the emptiness inside.

But I guess we’re more afraid to live like wounded people than walk like mindless zombies all day.

We’re afraid that if we knew, we may not be able to walk at all. We’d cry all day in bed, finally knowing what made us so empty. Finally acknowledging that we are mere human beings with very vital emotional needs.

What is it that seems to be missing in your life today?

What is causing you the most pain?

I challenge you to make this day count by facing the mirror and discovering who you are. Take off the mask that separates your image from your true self.

Your soul is aching. And you need to find out why if you want to find healing.

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Grief Poems

Grief Is a Blanket I Have Learned to Love

Grief is a blanket
I have learned to love
Though I must admit,
it used to be so rough
I could hardly bear touching it.

Grief is a blanket
I have learned to love,
Though I must admit
that the mere thought of it
caused my tears to fall.

And I gave it all
just to get rid of it,
’cause it would rub against my skin,
and I’d lay down
with wounds all over me.

But grief is a blanket
I have learned to love…
It protected me when I felt cold,
and O, how I felt so cold!

I’d rather be scratched by its edges,
I’d rather bear its heavy burden,
than to lay down empty and heartless,
unable to feel the tears
flowing from my eyes.

Grief is rough
and grief is heavy,
but it’s something I’d carry
to cover me with warmth.

Jocelyn Soriano wrote the books In Your Hour of Grief and Of Waves and Butterflies: Poems on Grief.

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Grief Poems

Do Not Cast My Ashes Into the Sea!

Do not cast my ashes into the sea
nor leave them near a tree,
Lest you believe that I am there…
These ashes came from me,
but they’re not me.

Do not carry my ashes
as though I could not move at all,
for I did not become that small.
Death never had me whole,
for I have my immortal soul.

Do not hope that I be carried by the wind,
for I will not come as dust that hurt your eyes.
I have not vanished when I died,
but I live still and I am here,
I’ll always stay right by your side.

Jocelyn Soriano wrote the books In Your Hour of Grief and Of Waves and Butterflies: Poems on Grief.

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Grief Poems

Grief Is Something You Do All Over Again

woman grievingI took some lessons and I’ve learned
that grief is something
you do all over again
like walking the path you once walked together,
or eating that pie that made him smile.

Grief is waking up each day,
and missing him all over again,
remembering when
you had him by your side.

It is sleeping at night
and trying not to cry
but then end up sleeping
with tears in your eyes.

Grief is going back to that very time,
when I could have said goodbye
but did not mind.
It’s wondering how anything
could have changed
if only I begged him
to kiss me goodnight.

They say time will heal
and the heart will mend,
but I have learned from my lessons
that grief is love that never ends.
You may try to move on
and you may try to forget,
but grief is something you do
all over again.

Jocelyn Soriano writes about relationships and the Catholic faith at Single Catholic Writer. She wrote the books In Your Hour of Grief and Of Waves and Butterflies: Poems on Grief.

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Categories
Grief

How the Outdoors Can Aid in Healing from Grief

How the Outdoors Can Aid in Healing from GriefGrief is a universal human experience that knows no boundaries of age, culture, or background. It is a natural response to loss, whether it be the passing of a loved one, the end of a relationship, or any other significant life change. While there is no one-size-fits-all approach to coping with grief, one source of comfort that has stood the test of time is the healing power of nature. The great outdoors has a remarkable ability to provide solace and aid in the process of healing from grief.

In our fast-paced, digitally-driven world, finding moments of tranquility and reflection can be challenging. Yet, it is precisely in these moments that nature can become a steadfast companion. Stepping into a natural setting, away from the noise and distractions of modern life, can create a sanctuary for the grieving heart. The gentle rustling of leaves, the soothing sound of flowing water, and the symphony of birdsong all work in harmony to create an atmosphere of serenity.

Nature’s ability to invoke this type of serenity is a crucial aspect of its healing power. When immersed in nature, the senses are awakened, drawing attention away from the incessant cycle of thoughts that can intensify grief. The simple act of observing the intricate details of a flower or listening to the rhythm of ocean waves can redirect focus, offering respite from the weight of sorrow.

Moreover, the outdoors offers a perspective that is far grander than ourselves. The vastness of the mountains, the endless stretch of the horizon, and the sheer diversity of flora and fauna remind us of the intricate tapestry of life. This broader perspective can help alleviate the isolation that often accompanies grief, reassuring us that we are part of something much greater. Nature’s cyclical patterns of growth, decay, and renewal mirror the ebb and flow of human emotions, providing a tangible reminder that healing is possible.

Scientifically, the healing power of nature is not just anecdotal. Research has consistently shown that spending time in natural environments can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. The natural world triggers the release of endorphins – often referred to as “feel-good” hormones – that contribute to improved mood and a sense of well-being. Furthermore, exposure to natural light aids in regulating the body’s circadian rhythms, promoting better sleep patterns, which are often disrupted by grief.

Engaging in physical activity outdoors also plays a pivotal role in the healing process. Physical exertion releases tension from the body and fosters a sense of accomplishment. Activities such as hiking, swimming, or simply taking a leisurely walk allow the grieving individual to channel their emotions in a productive manner. The rhythmic motion of walking or the adrenaline rush from an outdoor adventure can stimulate the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward.

Finding solace in nature is not limited to solitary experiences; it can also foster connections with others who share similar feelings. Grief can be an isolating experience, but participating in group activities such as outdoor exercises or communal gardening projects can offer a sense of belonging. Sharing stories and experiences within a supportive community can help individuals realize they are not alone in their struggles, creating a nurturing environment for healing.

Creating lasting connections with nature can also serve as a powerful tribute to the loved ones who have passed. Planting a tree, dedicating a bench, or participating in conservation efforts can transform grief into a force for positive change. These acts of remembrance offer a sense of continuity and connection, allowing the memory of the departed to live on through the healing impact on the natural world.

In conclusion, the healing power of nature is a timeless remedy for the human heart that is grappling with grief. The outdoors provides a sanctuary for quiet reflection, mindfulness, and a broader perspective that helps ease the burden of sorrow. Scientifically proven to reduce stress and promote emotional well-being, nature’s role in the healing process cannot be understated. Engaging in physical activities outdoors and forming connections with like-minded individuals can further enhance the healing journey.

While grief is an intricate and deeply personal experience, the healing power of nature offers a universal source of comfort. The great outdoors serves as a reminder that life is a cycle of growth and renewal, and that healing is a natural part of that process. So, whether it’s the gentle rustle of leaves or the majesty of a mountain vista, finding solace in nature can be a guiding light on the path to healing from grief.