Sifting Through Grief
Hey friends! A few weeks ago I was down at the lake, walking through the quiet park area that my now grown children once played in. The thought “an echo of what once was” went through my mind, followed by a sense of deep sadness rising up within. Grief decided to show up for an unexpected visit, in the sudden way that it often
Hello! A few weeks ago I was down at the lake, walking through the quiet park area that my now grown children once played in. The thought “an echo of what once was” went through my mind, followed by a sense of deep sadness rising up within. Grief decided to show up for an unexpected visit, in the sudden way that it often does! Instead of stuffing the emotions down (like I did for many years) I sat on the beach and spent some time reflecting on what I was feeling. I discovered a treasure trove of memories that had been stored up over the years. I could still hear the silly laughter, and see the playful romping of each of my kids. I recalled the many celebrations spent in this very place with family and friends, some of whom have since died. As I took the time to sift through like sand the memories that flowed, the heavy emotions of my grief began to lift as I expressed thanks to God for His goodness. He reminded me that although the days of childhood are no longer here, I have today to create new memories with my kids, and deepen our relationships in beautiful ways. And not only with them, but with friends and family as well! My heart and soul were transformed through the experience.
Working through the many emotions of grief is not easy, but certainly brings peace and a renewed purpose for living. Did you know that there are over 43 types of losses that create feelings of grief? We grieve the loss of a loved one due to death, but can also grieve things like our health, youth (hmm, I have noticed a few more wrinkles lately), a job change, or the loss of our home because of a move. We may grieve the loss of a marriage or friendships due to broken relationships. We grieve the loss of life that is slowly ebbing away due to debilitating illness. We may grieve the loss of a baby through miscarriage, the loss of a pet, or finances due to hardship. Or, we may grieve our children growing up and leaving the nest.
Grief can manifest itself in our homes, minds, and souls – I see this “grief clutter” all the time in my work. Becoming stuck in grief affects more than just our emotions and our relationships – it wreaks havoc in our homes. Unresolved grief clutter can affect every area of life. I can’t help but think of my amazing clients and the courage it takes each of them to make that call for help. They are vulnerable, yet so brave as they share stories with me of hearts utterly broken due to incredible loss. They express feeling hopeless, unmotivated, lost, confused, and overwhelmed. Through our coaching partnership, they feel supported and begin to sift and sort through the clutter they face. They start to feel empowered, make connections and decisions that enable them to move forward and live more wholly. Peter Walsh says: “clutter is not just the stuff on your floor – it’s anything that stands between you and the life you want to be living.” May we all take time to ponder where our own grief clutter lies, that we may discover more of the life God invites us to be living!
Coaching Connection
- What emotions of grief and loss can you identify with?
- In what ways do you see grief clutter showing up in your life?
- What is standing between you and the life God wants you to be living?
I’d love to hear your response
To Your Growth,
Carrie Cooper is a Certified Life, Grief & Organizing Coach who is passionate about helping others clear clutter of the home, mind and soul. She loves working with overwhelmed women who are feeling stuck in life transitions, grief and loss, helping them move forward with peace and purpose. If you (or anyone you may know!) happen to be feeling alone and in need of help, contact Carrie here to schedule a complimentary, get acquainted 30 minute call!