November – Seasons of Transitions

Seasons of Transitions

Seasons of transitions can be hard.

Do you have a grief season?

Do you unexpectedly face a new wave of grief as seasons change?

One of the most challenging seasons change for many is the transition from Summer to Fall.

As summer ends, the long days of sunlight give way to cooler temperatures, the changing of the color of leaves, and the brisk breeze in the air. Fall, or autumn, is a beautiful season of the year for many. For others, fall can be a painful time as it is a season of traditions, togetherness and the beginning of the holiday season.

As you watch beautiful flowers wither and vibrant leaves dry, the transition from Summer into Fall can produce unexpected grief. Watching seasonal movies, listening to a favorite song, the smells of calming aromas, and the taste of holiday flavors are bound to bring up both loving and painful memories. You may find yourself right back in the early stages of grief and aren’t quite sure why you’re feelings such overwhelming emotions all over again. The pain intensifies as each season brings new memories of your loved one. Revisiting these special times is natural but can be difficult and may seem like a setback in the grieving process.

When emotions hit, when you feel blah or numb, keep in mind that there is no timeline for grief. Experiencing the death of your loved one or loss of someone close to you doesn’t create a set of feelings that can working through in six months or a year. It’s not about moving on; but instead moving forward and through your loss.

The season can be memorable and bittersweet. Fall can remind you to nurture yourself from within. The leaves falling from trees, taking the time to turn inward allows us to feel, remember and even heal. It’s healthy to admit you are not always okay, and owning this truth could open the door to feeling gratitude and joy, even amid grief.

How you can prepare and support someone through Autumn grief…