While loss forever remains a part of our lives, sometimes it’s good to remember, and even revel in, the happy.
Having a loved one means, at least at some point, we knew them well. We knew what made them happy, what made them sad, what pained them most and what brought them their greatest joys.
It’s really easy to get stuck in our sadness, to get stuck in a rut. We are maybe at a place in our lives where we are looking for our own spark. Looking for our own joy. Looking for something that gives us a sense of purpose or meaning.
This might be a really good time to look back for something in our loved ones. Something they loved, were passionate about, took joy in. Borrow a page from their book.
Following are some examples… some things that we or our own friends and family have used.
A cause… there are many great ones to contribute to in a variety of ways. Volunteering can bring not only benefits to others but can be of great benefit to you, too.
Maybe your loved ones enjoyed building or creating for others… check into a nearby chapter of Habitat for Humanity. Offer to help with their next build.
Maybe they were, as many in my family are, devoted to pets or other animals… Volunteer at your local animal shelter or a nearby zoo. Foster a pet. Assisting at a city or town spay and neuter event would be good.
Maybe they were passionate about music… take up an instrument, learn to play the guitar (one of my goals, though not so successfully just yet), enjoy a special concert, learn a new dance move or two.
Maybe it was the arts… take up a painting class, or for the slightly more adventurous a glass blowing class, go to a play at a theater, sculpt, make pottery.
Help with healing… give blood.
Maybe travel was their thing… go ahead. Plan that trip. Overseas would be amazing, but so can a day trip to the nearest touristy town or attraction.
Or maybe try more than one. Have fun with this!!! In being open, in practicing a way to feel close to your loved one, you may find your own bit of happy.
Of Loss and Love 