Navigating Loss, Grief, and Embracing Change
As a death doula and end-of-life coach, I am fortunate to have the opportunity to support my clients as they navigate the complex journey of grief and embrace the changes that come with loss. It is my role to guide them through the intricate twists and turns of this emotional process, offering compassion and understanding along the way.
On my podcast Seeing Death Clearly I interview guests that have a variety of experiences with death, dying, and grief. When Suzanne Anderson was a guest on my podcast Seeing Death Clearly, she talked about the importance of embracing change, acknowledging loss, and finding strength in the present moment. Listen the “You Make Your Path by Walking with Suzanne Anderson” by clicking on the link.
We make our path by walking, through the woods and unknown territory.
During times of great upheaval, poetry can provide comfort and guidance. One of Suzanne Andersons favorite poems by Antonio Machado, a renowned Spanish poet, and it captures a profound moment of transition where we leave the past behind and step into an uncertain future. The poem's message, "You make your path by walking," became her personal mantra as she faced the challenging life event of her husband taking his own life.
Acknowledging Loss and Embracing Change:
Life has a way of throwing unexpected challenges our way, forcing us to deal with loss and change. Whether it's saying goodbye to a loved one, moving on from a phase of life, or seeing our envisioned future shattered, these experiences deeply affect our identity and how we see ourselves. When Suzannes husband chose to end his life, it shattered her world, causing her to question her sense of self and the future they had envisioned together. In her new book “You Make Your Path By Walking: A Transformational Field Guide Through Trauma and Loss” Suzanne reminds us that loss can go beyond the physical departure of a person; it can also be the end of a life phase or the loss of health and security.
Making Your Path by Walking:
Amidst the turmoil of loss, Suzanne discovers the significance of embracing the present moment and actively shaping her path forward. The phrase "You make your path by walking" takes on a new depth of meaning as she realizes that this is her life, not a temporary deviation from her previous existence. It becomes a reminder that the choices we make, the way we embrace the present moment, and our ability to adapt determine the direction we take. By accepting the reality of the present and being intentional with each moment, we can forge a path that aligns with our true selves.
Navigating the Emotional Landscape:
Our conversation on the podcast examines the complex emotional landscape that accompanies profound loss. Feelings of anger, fear, grief, and despair become constant companions, threatening to overwhelm us if we let them. Suzanne describes the importance of acknowledging and processing these emotions. She shares her experience of riding the waves of intense emotions, likening herself to a surfer. By not holding onto negative thoughts and embracing the intensity of her emotions, she learns to navigate through them, finding resolution and peace.
The Power of Ritual and Presence:
As Suzanne embarks on her healing journey, she discovers the strength of rituals and being present. Rituals are a language that speaks to both the conscious and unconscious parts of our being, allowing us to engage with the darkness and light within ourselves. These practices enable her to honor her emotional experiences and address the unconscious elements that shape her journey. The intentional practice of grounding herself in the present moment helps her find gratitude amidst the chaos, reminding her of the strength she possesses and the stability she still has in her life.
The common theme that emerges from our conversations is the transformative power of embracing change, acknowledging grief and loss, and finding strength in the present moment. Suzanne’s experiences serve as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the ability to navigate even the most disruptive times.
By understanding that we make our path by walking, we are empowered to actively shape our lives, make conscious choices, and find solace in the present. As we walk this path, we learn to honor our emotions, engage in healing rituals, and cultivate gratitude, allowing us to find our way forward with renewed purpose and resilience.
Listen to the full episode of the podcast “You Make Your Path by Walking with Suzanne Anderson” by clicking here as well as all of the episodes of Seeing Death Clearly.
Journaling Prompts for Self Discovery:
Reflect on a significant loss or life-altering change you have experienced. How did it impact your sense of identity and the future you had envisioned? Explore the emotions and challenges that arose during this time and consider how you have grown as a result.
Consider the phrase "You make your path by walking." What does this mean to you in the context of your own life? How can you apply this concept to navigate through challenging times and embrace change? Reflect on the choices you have made or can make to shape your path forward.
Explore the role of presence and gratitude in your journey of healing and resilience. How do you currently engage with the present moment? What practices or rituals could you incorporate to ground yourself and find strength amidst difficulties? Reflect on moments of gratitude and stability in your life, even during times of disruption.
Grief is a universal experience, an intricate tapestry of emotions that can leave us feeling lost, overwhelmed, and uncertain of our next steps. As a death doula, I will be your companion on this transformative journey, whether in person or virtually. I am dedicated to walking alongside my clients, offering support, insight, and the tools they need to honor their emotions and embark on a healing process that embraces both the past and the future. Together, we will navigate the complexities of grief, fostering healing, and empowering ourselves to embrace life anew. Book a call with me today to see how I can help you on your journey.
