New Year’s Grieving Resolutions

New Year’s Grieving Resolutions

As a new year begins, you are not expected to move on or be strong. These resolutions are simply invitations to honor your grief with compassion…one breath, one moment, one day at a time.

✔ I resolve to not place time limits on my grief; it will take as long as it takes.

✔ I resolve to acknowledge my grief as my own, individual and unique in how it takes shape.

✔ I resolve to be mindful of the need for flexibility when it comes to the expectations of others and myself.

✔ I resolve to not be pressured by “shoulds.”

✔ I resolve to cut myself some slack when I am not as productive as I might like, behave in ways uncharacteristic of my usual self or simply don’t care.

✔ I resolve to accept that others may not understand my pain and that is not realistic to expect that of them. Until one has walked the path, how can one know the terrain?

✔ I resolve to express my feelings without guilt and not apologize for tears.

✔ I resolve to be grateful for those who listen, who are willing to simply be present.

✔ I resolve to recognize that accepting assistance and support allows others the blessing of giving.

✔ I resolve to forgive those who say or do what feels hurtful, recognizing that unkindness is not intended.

✔ I resolve to extend to myself the same grace and patience I would offer others were they in my situation.

✔ I resolve to find small ways each day to to reinvest in life, moving gently toward hope and a sense of purpose.

✔ I resolve to continue to speak my loved one’s name, tell our stories and embrace my memories.

🤍 These resolutions are not promises of healing on a timeline, but reminders to meet yourself right where you are. Grief will walk with you into this new year and that’s okay. Carry your love forward, gently, trusting that hope can coexist alongside loss.