Grief – Renew Inspiration Mind Body Spirit

11 Ways to Cope with Grief During the Holiday Season

LaPorterDecember 19, 2022Leave a Reply

The loneliest walk you’ll ever take is the one down the road of grief. – Author Unknown

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you purchase through any of the links (at no additional cost to you).

Thought to Ponder – The “happy holidays” can be the least wonderful time of the year when we are mourning the death of a loved one.

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! I am truly lost and broken on today. It has been 7 years since my beautiful mother left her earthly body to be in heaven. I realize deep in my heart that she is in a better place where she will no longer be in pain while struggling to breathe due to suffering from severe COPD. I watched her change from an independent, vibrant, and feisty woman to one who struggled to care for herself on a daily basis. Watching her go through this terrible transition honestly broke me down to my core. It hurt me so much because I could not do anything to help her overcome this awful illness that she had to endure. Instead of staying in this deep depression and dark state, I chose to create this safe space to inspire others through my gift of writing.

11 WAYS TO COPE WITH GRIEF DURING THE HOLIDAY SEASON

Missing you comes in waves, tonight I’m drowning. – Unknown Author

The holidays can be a time of sadness, pain, anger or dread for anyone dealing with an illness, grief or the loss of a loved one. Unfortunately, grief can also magnify the stress that is often already felt during the holidays. On the other hand, it’s important to note that it’s alright to have a good time in spite of your grief. Just allow yourself to feel whatever your heart is feeling in the moment and have your trusted support team established.

Here’s 11 effective ways to cope with grief during the holiday season:

Be patient with yourself and others – The grief process can be exhausting and overwhelming. Be patient with yourself and extend that same compassion and understanding to others.
Offer yourself some grace – Give yourself permission to feel whatever it is you’re feeling. If you feel sad, allow the tears to come; if you feel angry, allow yourself to vent some steam in a safe manner.
Be kind to yourself – Be sure to get plenty of rest and nourishment you need; do not take on more than you can handle; if you need to be alone, then honor that. If you desire the affection of others, seek it out.
Openly communicate your preferences to others – Be prepared to have an open dialogue with your family and friends to ensure everyone’s grief is acknowledged. This would be a great time to determine if the holiday tradition will continue or if everyone will create a new tradition.
Ask for and accept help – It’s okay to tell your loved ones the best way that they can help you during this difficult time. Remember, ask and you shall receive.
Set healthy boundaries – Give yourself permission to “do things differently” this year as needed and choose to participate only if you’re ready and feel comfortable.
Focus on what you can control – Observe your surroundings and relationships. Then, do what makes you happy.
Find a way to honor your memories – Create a special way to memorialize your loved one. For example, light a candle, arrange to have a prayer vigil, release balloons, plant a tree, or create a stone garden.
Find support – Sharing your feelings is often the best way to get through them and finding people you can talk to will help. Family and friends can be a great support during times of grief. If they are unavailable, seek professional help from a licensed therapist, a grief counselor or grief support group in your area.
Acknowledge your grief reactions – It’s important to acknowledge that this season you may look or feel different. You may encounter the inevitable waves of grief and/or you may be surprised by moments of love, joy or hope.
Make a difference in your community – Give to your favorite charity organization or purchase a gift for a needy child. Consider volunteering at a nursing home, hospital, hospice, children’s shelter or soup kitchen. This can help you cope with your grief by contributing to the greater good within your community.

Keep in mind, the best gift you can give anyone you love is that of being true to yourself and living your life to the fullest, even as you adjust to the loss of a loved one during the holidays.

GRIEF AFFIRMATIONS

Grief can be the garden of compassion. If you keep your heart open through everything, your pain can become your greatest ally in your life’s search for love and wisdom. – Rumi

In order for you to experience the power of grief affirmations, it is important for you to feed your spirit with love and include grief affirmations in your daily routine. For example, I choose to feel good about myself and life’s journey each day. Even when I am feeling sad or depressed, deep inside I aspire to be a giver. A giver of life, a giver of hope, and a giver of strength. This kind of thinking will help you overcome life’s challenges, such as grief, and improve your overall well-being.

Here’s some grief affirmations to help you get started on your journey to healing:

In my sadness, I have learned to love and care for myself.
I acknowledge that I am never alone in my grief.
I treat myself with kindness, respect and compassion.
I allow myself to feel my grief and then let go.
I take comfort in the memories of my loved one.
I am thankful and feel fortunate to have known you.
I give myself time and space to grieve, process my feelings, and heal.
I appreciate how much love and positivity my loved one brought to this world.
I am patience with my healing process.
I trust in the healing process and remain confident.
I will give myself time to heal and remain optimistic about the future.
I embrace my experiences and know acceptance is the first step to finding peace within.

Repeat the grief affirmations 1 to 2 times per day so it will be a constant reminder of what you are aiming for. Shift your focus and attention towards thoughts and feelings that are both positive and constructive. Start using these affirmations along with journal prompts today, and watch the quality of your life improve throughout your journey. Focus on positive changes and you will get positive results. With time, I know I will learn to live and express myself differently, but for now writing is my escape. Have a safe and wonderful holiday season!

AMAZON PRODUCTS

Journal To Overcome Grief

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Renew Inspiration Journal

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JOURNAL PROMPTS

I love journaling because it is a safe place for me to put my feelings and emotions into words, then put my words into action. Remember, journaling is your very own personal journey throughout life, your ups and downs, your successes, and failures. Journaling also allows for past reflection, future insight, and present surrender. Ready, set, write!

What is happening in your mind right now in this very moment?
What do you know to be true in this moment?
Why are you grieving?
What is your fondest memory of your loved one?
Why do you feel lost and broken on today?
What was your high and low for today?
What is one of life’s little pleasures that you appreciate?
What is something you would love to learn in your lifetime?
Some of your grief triggers are ___________________.

SHARING WITH ONE ANOTHER

Let’s talk. Believe it or not, writing my feelings out in a journal or on my Renew Inspiration blog helps me sort out my thoughts. I’m able to release the hurt, loneliness, pain, anger, and heartache all in one place without judgment. Have you ever felt lost, lonely and broken throughout life? How do you cope with grief during the holidays? If so, how did you cope with your grief and pain? Do you plan to use grief affirmations to improve your life? If you haven’t done so already, do you plan to add affirmations and writing in your journal to your daily routine? Please share your thoughts in the comments section. I look forward to reading your feedback!

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow, and forever!

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you purchase through any of the links (at no additional cost to you).

How to Navigate Life While Coping with Grief

LaPorterNovember 29, 2022Leave a Reply

I didn’t give you the gift of life, life gave me the gift of you. – Unknown Author

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you purchase through any of the links (at no additional cost to you).

Thought to Ponder – Those who think there is a time limit when grieving, have never lost a piece of their heart.

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! In case you were wondering, I took a mental health break to gather my thoughts, feelings, and emotions. Today, my mother would have been 80 years old, but she passed away in December 2015. This has been a stressful time for me, to say the least. However, I want you to know that I appreciate you and all of the support you give to my writing and blogging platform.

5 STAGES OF GRIEF & LOSS – On Death and Dying written by Elisabeth Kubler-Ross

Loss and heartache do not define you. They are part of your story. – Unknown Author

Even though there are 5 stages of grief and loss, people who are grieving do not necessarily go through the stages in the same order or experience all of them. The stages of grief and mourning are universal in nature and are experienced by people from all walks of life, across many cultures. Mourning occurs in our lives in response to an individual’s own terminal illness, the loss of a close relationship, or to the death of a valued being, human or animal. While mourning, we spend different lengths of time working through each step and express each stage with different levels of intensity. Here’s the 5 stages of grief and loss as defined by Elisabeth Kubler-Ross:

Denial & Isolation – The first reaction is to deny and isolate yourself from the reality of the situation. Most people block out the painful words and hide from the facts. Some people will believe that nothing is of any value any more, not even life itself. For most people, this stage of grief and loss is a temporary response that carries us through the first wave of pain.
Anger – As denial and isolation leaves us, reality and its pain re-emerge. Now, the intense emotion people feel turns into anger. The anger may be toward objects, complete strangers, friends or family. Even though deep down inside the person knows this feeling of anger is wrong, they may even be directing it toward dying or deceased loved ones as well.
Bargaining – In the next stage, there are feelings of helplessness and vulnerability as a way to regain control through a series of “if only” statements, such as “If only we had sought medical attention sooner” or “If only we got a second opinion from another doctor.” Unfortunately, this is an attempt to bargain with God or our higher power in order to postpone our pain. Guilt often accompanies bargaining as well. The person believes there was something they could have done differently to have helped save their loved ones’ life.
Depression – In the next stage, the person may start to be overwhelmed with sadness or regret which turns into worry. This phase may be eased by simple reassurance from others around them. Another phase of depression is when the person is more private and tries to bid a farewell to their loved one in silence. In this case, a hug or a kind gesture will comfort them.
Acceptance – Reaching this stage of grieving is a gift not afforded to everyone. Death may be sudden and unexpected, or we may never see beyond our anger or denial. Unfortunately, this phase is marked by withdrawal and calm.

Please keep in mind that everyone grieves differently. There is no right or wrong way. Some people will wear their emotions on their face and be outwardly emotional. Other people will experience their grief more internally and may not cry at all. Remember, do not judge how a person choose to experience grief, as each person will experience it differently.

WAYS TO NURTURE YOUR MIND, BODY & SPIRIT WHILE COPING WITH GRIEF

You must learn to master a new way to think before you can master a new way to be. – Marianne Williamson

Sometimes I wish time would stand still and I don’t have to relive the pain that comes during this time of the year. While everyone else is excited for the holidays, I dread it with everything within me. The holidays are just not the same without my mother physically being here. No amount of journaling or therapy sessions will save you from the emotional turmoil that you experience and continue to feel throughout the grieving process.

Nevertheless, I’ve learned that it’s important to nurture your mind, body and spirit while coping with grief. Here’s a few different ways to help you get started along this journey:

Read and study God’s Word.
Seek God’s face each day through prayer and guided meditation.
Pray a specific prayer for positive change in and around your life.
Practice mindfulness and stay in the present.
Set personal goals and a plan to achieve them.
Fuel your body with healthy food options.
Exercise daily and/or try new yoga poses.
Change your mental focus and environment.
Setup a daily routine using a To-Do List.
Focus on gratitude and find what you are grateful for each day.
Write in your journal to get your thoughts on to paper and out of your head.
Make time for self-reflection. Go for a walk, read, listen to music, meditate or color.

However, if you feel your mental stability is getting worse throughout the grieving process, seek professional help in the form of therapy from a licensed therapist or social worker, medication to treat depression or anxiety, or support groups to help share your feelings with like-minded individuals.

AFFIRMATIONS TO HELP YOU NAVIGATE LIFE

Affirmations can be used to change your current mindset, boost your self-confidence, mood, and self-esteem. Through the power of repetition, you’re able to reconstruct your thought patterns, beliefs, and ideals in your subconscious mind. I will allow change to take place in my life on today. I plan to water my roots, so my soul can blossom. Now repeat after me:

In my sadness, I love myself.
It’s okay to take time to grieve.
I am patient with my healing process.
I allow myself to grieve then move on.
I feel my angels holding me today as I grieve.
I will embrace change in my life.
I will step out on faith throughout my journey.
I plan to endure and overcome heartache, pain, suffering, sadness and loneliness.
I am finding strength in myself as I grieve.
I focus on my blessings, goals and memories.
I will commit to improving my personal well-being.
I am gentle with myself as I heal.
I release my resistance to this situation.
I graciously accept help when its offered.
The universe lifts me, supports me and guides me.

Unfortunately, many of us struggle to overcome many obstacles in life, such as grief, and don’t understand that the root cause is often times hidden within. Whether you sometimes feel stressed out, anxious, sad or depressed, there’s one important fact that you need to remember. You need to learn that your mind, body and spirit must become ONE in order for you to be at your best. Only then, will you begin to navigate life while coping with grief.

TIME FOR REFLECTION – JOURNAL PROMPTS

To the mind that is still, the whole universe surrenders. – Lao Tzu

Keep calm and write on. Journaling is a powerful way to process events in your life, build self-awareness, get more clarity, and keep yourself on track. Journaling also allows for past reflection, future insight, and present surrender. Keep in mind that this is a journey, and everyone takes their own path. Ready, set, write!

MIND

How can you create a space to help clear your mind?
What are some of your mental obstacles in life that are holding you back?
Our passion is typically something that brings us pleasure. What are some of your most passionate thoughts and how do you nurture them?
What is your greatest quest in life?

BODY

Sit or stand very still. What are you feeling right now in this very moment?
What are you having a hard time accepting in your life?
What are your strengths and weaknesses?
How are you mistreating your body or compromising your health?

SPIRIT

What steps do I need to take to become spiritually grounded in God’s Word?
What is holding you back from trusting and believing in God?
Does my life reflect what my heart desire? If not, what changes can I make?
How do you plan to feed your spirit on today?

JOURNAL TO OVERCOME GRIEF: A PERSONAL JOURNEY TO HEALING

No matter how bad your heart is broken, the world doesn’t stop for your grief. – Faraaz Kazi

Journal To Overcome Grief: A Personal Journey to Healing can be purchased via Amazon.com. This beautiful grief journal includes thought provoking journal prompts and quotes that will help you navigate life after loss.

There will be times when you’ll want to cry and other times when you’ll smile as you explore your personal reflections. This is a unique way to honor your loved one and connect with their spirit through writing while creating your own personal keepsake for years to come.

SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS

We all are different and unique, but I do know that our minds, bodies, and spirit must be as ONE in order for us to feel complete. What are some things you do to help calm your mind, body, and spirit? I look forward to reading your comments and feedback!

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow, and forever!

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you purchase through any of the links (at no additional cost to you).

Happy Mother’s Day

LaPorterMay 8, 2022Leave a Reply

A mother’s heart is like a rose, always open, always loving. – Unknown Author

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you purchase through any of the links (at no additional cost to you).

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Happy Mother’s Day to all of the well-deserved women reading this blog today. My prayer is that you got a chance to relax a bit and enjoyed time with family and friends.

Mother’s Day is a holiday honoring motherhood that is observed in different forms throughout the world. However, Mother’s Day is bittersweet for me since I lost my mother in December 2015. In honor of my mother, Rosalynn K. Russell, I wrote this poem as I struggled through my first phase of grief:

STILL HERE – Written by Latisha Porter

Still here…your spirit lives within me, I can feel you, but I cannot see;

Your beautiful face that often lit up a room, makes us wonder if you left too soon;

Still here…your presence surrounds me day by day, sometimes I cannot find the words to say;

I love you, I miss you, I cry myself to sleep;

No one seems to understand me cause my emotions are so deep.

Still here…your love will forever be in my heart, even though you’re gone, we’ll never be apart…Still here!

POSITIVE AFFIRMATIONS FOR MOTHERS

Surround yourself with only people who are going to lift you higher. – Oprah Winfrey

Did you know that positive affirmations are used to reprogram the subconscious mind and to encourage us to believe certain things about ourselves or about the world and our place in it? Positive affirmations are also used to help us create the reality we want in life. Now, with that said, please recite these positive affirmations every day and look in a mirror as you say them. Repeat them until you feel it in your soul, and you begin to believe every word.

I am divine love.
I am a good mother.
I must take care of myself so I can take care of those I love.
I am an amazing mother, even as I work hard to become a better one each day.
There is value in everything I do.
Love flows into my life easily and effortlessly.
The love I give comes back to me tenfold.
I am worthy of love, support, and appreciation.
My needs and desires matter and they deserve to be met.
It’s okay to need, want, and take a break from my family to be alone.
Taking care of myself is not selfish, it is necessary for me to be a great mother.

MOTHER’S DAY FUN FACTS

Mothering is the gospel lived out as you hold your child’s heart in beauty, prayer, and patience. It’s not the big decision, but the little ones, trusting God through it all. – Elizabeth Hawn

DID YOU KNOW…

Ann Reeves Jarvis of West Virginia helped start Mother’s Day Work Clubs to teach local women how to properly care for their children.
In 1868, Ann Reeves Jarvis organized Mother’s Friendship Day at which mothers gathered with former Union and Confederate soldiers to promote reconciliation.
In 1870, Julia Ward Howe wrote the Mother’s Day Proclamation which was a call to action that asked mothers to unite in promoting world peace.
In 1873, Julia Ward Howe campaigned for a Mother’s Peace Day to be celebrated every June 2.
The official Mother’s Day holiday arose in the 1900s as a result of the efforts of Anna Jarvis, daughter of Ann Reeves Jarvis.
In May 1908, Anna Jarvis organized the first official Mother’s Day celebration at a Methodist church in Grafton, West Virginia.
By 1912 many states, towns and churches had adopted Mother’s Day as an annual holiday.
In 1914, President Woodrow Wilson signed a measure officially establishing the second Sunday in May as Mother’s Day.

JOURNAL TO OVERCOME GRIEF: A PERSONAL JOURNEY TO HEALING

No matter how bad your heart is broken, the world doesn’t stop for your grief. – Faraaz Kazi

TIME FOR REFLECTION – JOURNAL PROMPTS

A mother instructs with wisdom, guides through example, trains by love. – Roy Lessin

Journaling is a powerful way to process events in your life, build self-awareness, get more clarity, and keep yourself on track. Journaling also allows for past reflection, future insight, and present surrender. Keep in mind that this is a journey, and everyone takes their own path. Ready, set, write!

Write a letter or poem to your mother expressing your gratitude and appreciation.
What do you like about yourself as a mother, sister, aunt, friend, etc.?
What makes you feel nourished in your mind, body, and spirit?
How do you add value to the world and those around you?
How can you show yourself more love?
What is your favorite part of your daily routine?
What do you want your legacy to be?

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow, and forever!

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you purchase through any of the links (at no additional cost to you).

Practice Self-Care During Your Grief Experience

LaPorterApril 30, 2022Leave a Reply

Self-care is giving the world the best of you, instead of what’s left of you. – Katie Reed

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you purchase through any of the links (at no additional cost to you).

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Let’s discuss how important it is for you to practice self-care during your grief experience. Although everyone grieves in their own unique way, the emotional turmoil you feel during your grief experience can be complicated and have you feeling depleted. Whether you want to admit it or not, grief also leaves you feeling as though you have no voice when other people are not willing to listen to how you feel.

WHY SELF-CARE IS IMPORTANT

Give yourself the same care and attention that you give to others and watch yourself bloom. – Unknown Author

So, what is self-care? According to The Self-Care Solution written by Suzy Reading, self-care can be defined as any life-giving activity that restores, sustains or improves your health. Self-care is nourishment for your mind, body and spirit. Self-care can also help people become the best version of themselves when they learn effective ways to navigate through life.

Suzy Reading provides three reasons why self-care is important:

Stress is not going to go away. Stress is a normal part of life. In fact, life would be boring without some stress to keep us on our toes, right?
Stress has a cumulative effect. Stress can add up very quickly so make sure to plan for regular pressure releases throughout your day. For example, go for a walk, do a stretch routine or meditate.
Too much stress is dangerous. It’s a fact that too much stress makes us ill and greatly diminishes our ability to enjoy life.

In other words, self-care is necessary and can lead to:

A relaxed mood and improved state of mind
Improved thinking, organization, and personal relationships
Clearer understanding of where we are mentally and physically, and the ability to address our personal needs before we tend to others

SELF-CARE TIPS FOR GRIEF

Self-care is how you take your power back. – Lalah Della

Let’s be honest. It’s hard to think about yourself when you’re experiencing grief. Grief is hard and painful. There’s so many thoughts, feelings and emotions swirling around in your head all at once. Unfortunately, grief takes over your reality and your own needs tend to fall by the wayside. Make the time to implement some of these tips into your daily life routine. The tips are in no specific order, so scan through and pick those you relate to. As you can see, self-care is not selfish, but it is necessary to help keep you calm during your grief experience.

Take a moment and use these self-care tips for grief that can help you keep a calm mind, body and spirit:

#1 – Breathe Mindfully – Take time to breathe slowly and focus on your natural breath. This process will put your mind in the present moment.
#2 – Be Kind to Yourself – Being kind to yourself has tremendous healing power. Treat yourself as you would treat a beloved friend. Give yourself space to feel the pain of grief and allow your heart to break. Self-compassion
#3 – Let Yourself Cry – If you feel the need to cry, then let your tears flow. Crying is a gate way to your total healing experience.
#4 – Pray and Meditate Regularly– Despite how bad you’re feeling inside, it’s important to spend time in prayer and meditation. This process will help clear your mind and keep you in the present. Consistency is key so start with 10 to 20 minutes per day.
#5 – Connect with Others – No matter how difficult it may be, it’s important for you to have interaction with people you trust. However, if you feel like your support system has fallen apart, then find a compassionate grief counselor or therapist to speak with.
#6 – Move Your Body – Push yourself to move your body. Take a walk outside, practice doing yoga or try a new exercise class. Exercise does the whole body good. Exercise will help you sleep better and offer you a healthier option to release stress during this difficult time.
#7 – Express Yourself Through Creativity – Allowing yourself to spend time writing in your journal, drawing, coloring or knitting can help you focus on activating your creative side of your brain.

As you can see, grief can manifest itself physically, mentally, and emotionally. If you are not careful, grief can throw off your whole life balance and really have an effect on your future health.

HOW TO CREATE A SELF-CARE PLAN

Self-care is not self-indulgence, it is self-preservation. – Audre Lorde

The best way to practice self-care during your grief experience is to create yourself a self-care plan. A self-care plan will allow you to be proactive and to take action when you need it most.

Here’s the five components necessary to create a self-care plan:

#1 – Identify personal needs and values – Keep in mind that your personal needs and values change when you experience life events, such as grief. Question – How do you feel?
#2 – Boundaries in regard to relationships and time – Set healthy boundaries with people and stick to them. Question – Does people energize you or deplete you?
#3 – Support system and circle of trust – Put a dependable support system in place that you trust. Question – Who is it that you lean on and trust?
#4 – Community resources and creative outlets – Research valuable community resources that will assist you throughout this journey. Question – What resources do you have available to you?
#5 – Personal and professional goals – Set personal and professional goals to improve your life. Question – Where do you want to see yourself I the future?

When done correctly, you will have time to reflect on the past, consider the future, and make most of the present.

JOURNAL TO OVERCOME GRIEF

No matter how bad your heart is broken, the world doesn’t stop for your grief. – Faraaz Kazi

SELF-CARE AFFIRMATIONS

Be enough for yourself first, the rest of the world can wait. – Unknown Author

Self-care affirmations will help you to focus on improving yourself. You can spend 5 – 10 minutes in meditation, journaling, or yoga with mantras. Self-love, positivity, open-mindedness, help set you in the right direction. Designate a time in the morning and at night when you can recite affirmations aloud. By saying them aloud, you hear the powerful words, and it can help you internalize them as true. The key to seeing a positive change in life is to say the affirmations with conviction and make it personal.

Here’s a few of my favorite self-care affirmations to help you get started:

I love and respect myself.
I know my value and self-worth.
I care about myself and listen to all of my needs.
I am strong, resilient, and smart.
I treat myself with love, kindness, and acceptance.
I am powerful, healthy, and capable.
I am free of self-doubt and insecurities because I am confident.
I am centered, at peace, and in love with myself.
I affirm empowering and kind messages to myself.
I set healthy boundaries and stick to them.
I always focus on the positive side of life.
I embrace my past and learn from it every day.
I am not my mistakes or my past.
I release myself of any misery and suffering.

Remember, there’s no time limit on the grief process. Instead of avoiding grief, take time to address the pain and heartache you feel while you practice self-care. Then, go through the grieving process at your own pace and release the negative feelings by:

Crying or laughing about a past memory
Talking about your loss and sharing the memories with others
Writing about it or writing a letter to them, or even keeping a journal

TIME FOR REFLECTION – JOURNAL PROMPTS

Breathe. Let go. And remind yourself that this very moment is the only one you know you have for sure. – Oprah Winfrey

Journaling is a powerful way to process events in your life, build self-awareness, get more clarity, and keep yourself on track. Journaling also allows for past reflection, future insight, and present surrender. Keep in mind that this is a journey, and everyone takes their own path. Ready, set, write!

What was the last self-care thing you did?
What is one thing you need to let go?
What is one way you like to recharge your energy levels?
What is holding you back from improving your lifestyle?
How can I honor my body on today?
How important is self-care to you while you grieve?
What would you like to include in your daily self-care routine?

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow, and forever!

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you purchase through any of the links (at no additional cost to you).

Journal To Overcome Grief

LaPorterApril 17, 2022Leave a Reply

Grief never ends, but it changes. In passage, not a place to stay. Grief is not a sign of weakness, nor a lack of faith. It is the price of love. – Unknown Author

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you purchase through any of the links (at no additional cost to you).

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Hope you’ve enjoyed your Easter holiday so far! Today, let’s discuss how to journal to overcome grief. Grief hits everyone differently. Coping with the loss of someone or something you love is one of life’s biggest challenges. Even though you may associate grieving with the death of a loved one, there are other losses that may occur in one’s life that may cause you grief, pain, and heartache, such as:

Divorce or relationship breakup
Loss of health
Losing a job
Loss of financial stability
A miscarriage
Retirement
Death of a pet
Loss of a cherished dream
A loved one’s serious illness
Loss of a friendship
Loss of safety after a trauma

Despite the unrest, hatred, loneliness, and fear that is experienced during the grief process, it’s important to find healthy ways to cope with your thoughts, feelings, and emotions.

BENEFITS OF JOURNALING THROUGH GRIEF

Grief can be the garden of compassion. If you keep your heart open through everything, your pain can become your greatest ally in your life’s search for love and wisdom. – Rumi

Journaling is a proven coping tool for exploring grief and other complicated emotions. I don’t know about you, but journaling is my safe place, my time to just write how I feel and scream on paper, and no one will ever know. A journal provides a safe environment for you to express your heart felt thoughts. Every person’s grief journal will be different based on the persons expectations, goals, experiences, and preferences.

There are benefits of journaling through grief, such as:

Reduce stress and anxiety – Expressive writing can lower stress and anxiety levels during any situation.
Improve your memory – Regular journal writing can improve your short-term memory.
Stay organized – Keeping a journal such as a weight loss diary or grief journal lets you maintain an organized record of your progress.
Strengthen your self-discipline – Journaling helps you to keep a regular writing schedule until it becomes a habit.
Prioritize problems and fears – Journaling helps you to see your triggers more clearly so you can prioritize and solve your problems and fears.
Allow yourself to self-reflect – Don’t over think your written entries, just write honestly, and make time for self-reflection.
Clarify your thoughts and feelings – Jot down your thoughts and feelings with no editing and you will contact your internal being.
Be creative – Add photos and positive quotes to enhance your written entries.

As you can see, keeping a journal allows you to track patterns, trends, improvement, and growth over time. Make sure to reflect on these thoughts often throughout your journey.

JOURNAL TO OVERCOME GRIEF

No matter how bad your heart is broken, the world doesn’t stop for your grief. – Faraaz Kazi

Today, I’m excited to share my new book called Journal To Overcome Grief: A Personal Journey to Healing that can be purchased via Amazon.com. This beautiful grief journal includes thought provoking journal prompts and quotes that will help you navigate life after loss.

GRIEF AFFIRMATIONS

The irony of grief is that the person that you need to talk to about how you feel is the person who is no longer here. – Unknown Author

Grief affirmations may offer you hope when you feel there is none left. Grief affirmations can help shift your mindset in a positive direction. Take a moment each day to recite the following grief affirmations with confidence. Then, you’ll watch your life change right before your eyes.

No matter what you say, I know my grief matters.
I am strong because of what I have been through.
I heal with curiosity, presence, and hope.
Grief gives me wings with which I spread love.
I am always healing, and never alone.
My life is a celebration of their life.
Grief is a call for me to wake up and live, and love, even more.

Designate a time in the morning and at night when you can recite affirmations aloud. By saying them aloud, you hear the powerful words, and it can help you internalize them as true. The key to seeing a positive change in life is to say the affirmations with conviction and make it personal.

TIME FOR REFLECTION – JOURNAL PROMPTS

You never really get over the death of someone you love. You simply get through it. – Unknown Author

How do you define grief?
Do you plan to start journaling through grief? Why or why not?
What is grief trying to tell you through this experience?
What triggers your grief when you’re alone?
How can you begin to make space for grief instead of avoiding it?
What are your saddest moments when you feel stuck in isolation?
What wisdom have you learned from grief?

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow, and forever!

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you purchase through any of the links (at no additional cost to you).

Find Hope Through Journaling

LaPorterDecember 20, 20212 Replies

When the world says, “give up.” Hope whispers “try it one more time.” – Unknown Author

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you purchase through any of the links (at no additional cost to you).

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! When I think of hope, I think of beauty that’s all around me and positive vibes that flow from within. Hope is like a beautiful flower that thrives on sunlight and water. In a spiritual sense, hope relies on your daily commitment to God’s Word, prayer, faith, and worship.

BUILD A SOLID FOUNDATION OF HOPE

Never underestimate the power of hope. Hope fuels us with the energy and courage to go forward. – Adele Basheer

But how do you find hope through journaling as you grieve? Learning how to safely navigate through the grieving process can be scary for some and hard for others. It requires you to feel vulnerable, yet it forces you to find your way through the sense of loss and loneliness. At times you feel like pushing everyone and everything away. I challenge you today that instead of running away from your pain, heartache, and misery, choose to invite God in to comfort you during this difficult time.

Here’s some steps to help you build a solid foundation of hope that will carry you through the storms of life, such as grief:

Step 1 – Submit yourself to God because He has not given up on you. God is the source of our hope. Come to God in humility and He will restore you. “For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.” Jeremiah 29:11
Step 2 – Strengthen your faith because there is an eternal life to come. Allow God’s previously fulfilled promises from the Holy Bible to renew your hope. “Yet what we suffer now is nothing compared to the Glory He will give us later.” Romans 8:18
Step 3 – Trust God’s timing because God is truly in control of everything. Remember, sometimes God answers prayers quickly and at other times God allows us to wait. If God is God, then nothing happens in our lives apart from His knowledge and permission. We have to learn not to rely on ourselves, but on God who can raise the dead. 2 Corinthians 1:8, 9
Step 4 – Thank God today because you’re not facing this difficult situation alone. Every day set time aside to thank God through worshipping, reading God’s Word, praying, and meditating. For God said, “I will never fail you. I will never forsake you.” That is why we can say with confidence, “The Lord is my helper, so I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?” Hebrews 13:5, 6

Remember, hope is what helps us deal with grief, find positives in our current situation, help us continue searching for something better, and to have faith that everything will work out in the end.

AMAZON RESOURCE # 1 – A Guided Journal for Healing & Hope

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WAYS TO RESTORE HOPE IN YOUR LIFE

Each day, there is a new beginning, a new chance, a new hope, a new light! – Unknown Author

Did you know that having hope in life will give you courage in the midst of a storm, such as grief? Hope is seeing light in spite of being surrounded by darkness. Hope is the only thing stronger than fear. Hope is the ability to hear the melody of the future.

Here’s some ways to restore hope in your life:

Be kind to yourself and others.
Listen to another person’s story.
Treat each day like a precious gift.
Look for meaning in the most challenging moments.
Reconnect with nature.
Focus on your spirit and shift your expectations.
Listen to music and channel your energy into productive change.
Show gratitude and compassion.
Think about the essential goodness of humanity and volunteer.

Despite what you may be experiencing in your life right now, never stop believing in hope because miracles happen every day. Be brave and take risks. After all, nothing can substitute your true experience, whether it is positive or negative. So, continue to hope for a positive outcome to happen in your life.

AMAZON RESOURCE #2 – Grieving with Hope: Finding Comfort as You Journey Through Loss

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FIND HOPE THROUGH JOURNALING

Hope is that beautiful place between the way things were and the way things are yet to be. – Unknown Author

In reality, most people fail many times before they succeed so never stop hoping for positive change to happen in your life. One way you can do this is by journaling on a regular basis. Journaling provides a safe place for you to speak truth and to find comfort without judgment.

Here’s some ways to find hope through journaling:

Set realistic journaling goals each week and establish a writing routine that fits into your current lifestyle. You may need to rearrange your daily tasks, wake up earlier or spend time writing before bedtime.
Begin to visualize yourself finding hope again after your goals are achieved. Take a moment and ask yourself what life looks like after the goals are reached, then spend a few minutes every day picturing yourself in that very same life. Of course, writing in your journal will help you stay committed or spend some time creating a vision board.
Evaluate your progress as you move through the steps you’ve identified as necessary to reach your journaling goals and adjust your efforts as needed along your journey.
Prepare for your journey. Look at what you’ve already achieved, think about your strengths, think about what’s important to you, and where you want to go in life.
Set out on your journey. Build the knowledge you need to succeed, focus on the basics, set small goals, and achieve them.
Make time for self-reflection often to examine one’s own thoughts, feelings, and emotions to gain better insight of one’s life.

The importance of hope is immeasurable. Continue to seek out positivity and recognize you can change your life at any point. Many of us need to look forward to the future and stop focusing on past experiences. You never know what tomorrow may bring so keep hope alive through journaling. Until next time, have a wonderful and safe holiday season!

AMAZON RESOURCE #3

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JOURNAL PROMPTS

Journaling is a powerful way to process events in your life, build self-awareness, get more clarity, and keep yourself on track. Journaling also allows for past reflection, future insight, and present surrender. Keep in mind that this is a journey and everyone takes their own path. Ready, set, write!

How do you define hope?
What do you hope for each day?
Do you find hope through journaling? If so, please explain.
Did you see or hear anything today that gave you hope?
How did this feeling of hope change your perspective in life?
Why do you find it difficult to find hope when you’re experiencing hardships in life?
Have you lost hope along your journey? If so, why do you feel this way?

BONUS – Here are five suggestions on how to use journaling during times of grief:

Have your journal with you at all times. Since grief comes in waves, always have your journal with you. You will find that your journal will provide relief and comfort during your difficult times.
Do a brain and pain dump. Write in your journal without editing or worrying about grammar checks until you feel better. This process allows you to reflect on your thought patterns and overall physical well-being.
Write a gratitude list. A gratitude list is a powerful way to focus on what is positive during a time when it seems that you will never find hope again. You can start your list by writing…Today I am grateful for ____________.
Do timed writing exercises. Scheduling timed writing exercises will help you develop a regular writing routine that provides productivity and encourages creativity.
Use writing prompts when you feel stuck. It can be helpful for you to pause and select a writing prompt during your journal writing time. Examples – 1) Today my grief feels like… 2) My happiest memory of you is … 3) What I treasure is this …

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

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Conquer Grief During the Holidays

LaPorterNovember 22, 20211 Reply

The loneliest walk you’ll ever take is the one down the road of grief. – Author Unknown

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Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! I don’t know about you, but I’ve found that the holidays can be a time of sadness, pain, anger or dread for anyone dealing with an illness, grief or the loss of a loved one. Let’s take a moment to identify some very important coping skills that will help you or someone you know conquer grief during the holidays.

- Be kind and offer yourself some grace – Everyone has unique grief experiences. Give yourself permission to feel whatever it is you’re feeling. If you feel sad, allow the tears to come; if you feel angry, allow yourself to vent some steam in a safe manner.
- Set realistic expectations for yourself – Remind yourself that this year is different. Be sure to get plenty of rest and nourishment. Do not take on more than you can handle.
- Ask for and accept help – It’s okay to tell your loved ones the best way that they can help you during this difficult time. If you desire the affection of others, seek it out. Remember, ask and you shall receive.
- Set healthy boundaries with family and friends – Allow yourself time to grieve and understand what you’re feeling inside. Decide new holiday routines when you’re ready and feel comfortable.
- Surround yourself with people who love and support you – Sharing your feelings is often the best way to get through them and finding people you can talk to will help.
- Write journal entries to express yourself – Don’t be afraid to express yourself and tune into your grief emotions while writing journal entries.
- Make a difference in your community – Give to your favorite charity organization, purchase a gift for a needy child or consider volunteering at a homeless shelter. This can help you cope with your grief by contributing to the greater good within your community.

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GREAT IDEAS TO HONOR YOUR LOVED ONE

In this hollow I do grieve for all the things that cease to be. – Angie Weiland-Crosby

Choose to create a special way to memorialize your loved one this holiday season. Here’s some great ideas you can use to honor your loved one and keep their memories alive:

Light a candle.
Arrange to have a prayer vigil.
Create an online tribute.
Make a memorial ornament, wreath or holiday decoration.
Share your favorite story, quote or poem.
Release balloons or sky lanterns.
Plant a tree and create a stone garden.
Visit your loved one’s special place.
Recite a special prayer and choose to have a moment of silence.
Make a donation to a charity of your choice.

Keep in mind, the best gift you can give anyone you love is that of being true to yourself and living your life to the fullest, even as you adjust to the loss of a loved one during the holidays. With time, patience, and the right coping skills I am certain you will conquer grief during this holiday season and beyond!

PRAYER

God of love and mercy, embrace all those whose hearts today overflow with grief, unanswered questions and such a sense of loss. Immerse them in your love and lead them through this darkness into your arms, and light. Grant them space to express their tears. Hold them close through the coming days. Amen.

JOURNAL PROMPTS

Missing you comes in waves, tonight I’m drowning. – Unknown Author

Why are you grieving?
What is your fondest memory of your loved one?
What are some of your grief triggers?
Why do you feel lost and broken?
What was your high and low on today?
What do you know to be true in this moment?
How do you prefer to honor your loved one during the holiday season?

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you purchase through any of the links (at no additional cost to you).

Recognize God’s Favor As You Grieve

LaPorterOctober 26, 20211 Reply

If you have God’s presence, you have favor. One minute of God’s presence can accomplish more than 20 years of your striving. – Heidi Baker

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you purchase through any of the links (at no additional cost to you).

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Today, please take a moment and think about this question – Do you recognize God’s favor in your life as you grieve? If you answered no to this question, then it’s important for you to continue reading this inspiring blog post.

To begin with, God’s favor can be described as a divine kindness, or an act of true compassion on the part of God Himself toward needy and undeserving people. You can identify God’s favor in or around your life when you see three spiritual things happening:

God has sovereignly chosen a recipient of His grace.
God has blessed that recipient in one way or another.
God has intentions that His blessing be shared with others.

It’s important to note that sometimes it’s easier to see God’s favor in someone else’s life rather than your own. Continue to be grounded in God’s Word, in prayer, and in constant communication with Him so you can hear His voice speak into your life.

RECOGNIZE GOD’S FAVOR AS YOU GRIEVE

When God grants you His favor, nothing can stop the blessings He has in store. – Unknown Author

You receive God’s favor in your life when your heart, words, and actions line up with the Word of God. But how do you recognize God’s favor as you grieve? Learning how to safely navigate through the grieving process can be scary for some and hard for others. It requires you to feel vulnerable. It forces you to find your way through the sense of loss and loneliness. At times you feel like pushing everyone and everything away. Instead of running away from your pain, heartache, and misery, choose to invite God in to comfort you during this difficult time.

Here’s how you can recognize God’s favor as you grieve:

God’s favor is God’s grace. God’s favor is the reason you and I are saved. We are saved by God’s favor and His grace. Take time to deepen your understanding of God’s character throughout your journey.
God’s favor affects every area of your life. Every part of your life is impacted by the grace and favor of God. This means you are delivered, protected, preserved, healed, and made whole. Be patient in the process and listen with your spiritual ear.
God began showing you His favor even before you were born again. Salvation is the greatest expression of God’s favor in our lives. God continues to pour out grace and more favor to us every moment of our lives, if we only receive it.
God’s favor surrounds you continually. As a born-again Christian, you have been made righteous by Jesus and that righteousness came with God’s favor which surrounds you continually. Don’t compare your suffering with others, but instead invite others in who you trust.
You must realize and accept God’s favor to experience it fully. Before you can receive the benefits from God’s favor, you must know that they are yours to begin with. Just as with every other spiritual benefit, you must receive them by faith.

Whether you realize it or not, God’s favor is on your life even as you grieve. God seeks out those who love Him and love His commandments so that He can bless, guide, and protect them at all times. God’s gracious kindness is His to give, and He gives it when, to whom, and how he chooses. One touch of God’s favor can change everything in your life. Stay faithful and trust in His timing. God’s favor is yours now and forever.

JOURNAL PROMPTS

What takes your mind away from God, thus robbing you from God’s favor?
Do you sometimes block God’s favor in your life? Why or why not?
How do you plan to recognize God’s favor as you grieve?
What are some ways you can become stronger and more courageous?
What kind of support do you need while grieving?
Where do you see the unmistakable mark of the creator?
When have you seen God use something small to produce a big outcome?

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you purchase through any of the links (at no additional cost to you).

Finding Peace and Comfort During Grief

LaPorterOctober 4, 2021Leave a Reply

Inner peace begins the moment you choose not to allow another person or event to control your emotions. – Pema Chodron

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you purchase through any of the links (at no additional cost to you).

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Today, I want to talk about finding peace and comfort during grief. Whether your grief experience is recent or not, it takes internal strength to find true peace and comfort while coping with the pain after the death of a loved one. So, instead of living your life worrying about the “what ifs”, spend time preparing your mindset with peaceful thoughts. Here’s a few examples to help you get started:

Find & recite your favorite scripture or prayer
Recite positive affirmations & quotes
Listen to motivational podcasts
Read an inspirational book
Receive uplifting words from a family member or friend

At the end of the day, what’s important is that you’re at peace because your intentions are good, and your heart is pure.

FIVE STAGES OF GRIEF

Grief…for those of us who understand, no explanation is needed. For those of us who do not, no description is possible. – Fran Solomon, Founder HealGrief.org

Now, let’s go over a few important facts about grief. First, we all experience grief differently. Second, there are no set rules to follow when grieving. Third, grief is often described in five stages as described by Elisabeth Kubler-Ross:

Denial – This can’t be happening.
Anger – Why did this happen? Who is to blame?
Bargaining – Make this not happen and I will …
Depression – I can’t bear this: I’m too sad to do anything.
Acceptance – I acknowledge that this has happened, and I cannot change it.

Although grief is often described in stages, each stage may last for a different period of time and it’s important to note that everyone may not experience all of the stages. Either way, make sure you acknowledge some or all of the stages as you experience them so you will understand what may be happening in your life.

COMMON SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF GRIEF

I’m unsure which pain is worse…the shock of what happened or the ache for what never will. – Unknown Author

Next, let’s discuss the common signs and symptoms of grief so we can begin the healing process a lot sooner.

Shock and disbelief – You may feel numb or question whether the loss really happened.
Sadness – Profound sadness can lead to a feeling of isolation.
Guilt – You may feel guilt over things you said or did.
Anger – You may be angry with the person, caregivers or God/Higher Power.
Fear – You may begin to fear your own mortality or facing life without your loved one.
Physical – Nausea, fatigue, lowered immunity, weight loss or gain, insomnia, aches and pains.

It’s my hope that you may be able to cope with life once you understand what’s happening during the grief process.

WAYS TO FIND PEACE AND COMFORT DURING GRIEF

Today I choose: calm over chaos; serenity over stress; peace over perfection; grace over grit; faith over fear. – Mary Davis

You can find peace and comfort during grief by speaking peace into your life every day. Examples – 1) Today, I am totally safe and surrounded by love, light, peace, and joy. 2) Today, I invite peace and harmony to dwell in me and surround me at all times. 3) Today, I have the freedom and power to create the life I desire.

Here’s a few more ways to find peace and comfort during grief:

Talk to someone you trust – family, friends, therapist, grief counselor, etc.
Take a walk outside and enjoy nature.
Listen to your favorite music to help calm your spirit.
Practice meditation and deep breathing exercises.
Establish a self-care routine for yourself.
Find something that you enjoy doing – a new hobby, learn a new skill, take a class, etc.
Stop feeling shame and guilt.
Make gratitude a part of your life.
Acknowledge and release negativity.
Practice doing relaxing activities – writing in a journal, reading, painting, coloring, etc.

Keep in mind that you already have peace within you, right now, in this very moment. Instead of ignoring and judging others, let’s be more supportive to others who may be struggling with finding peace and comfort during grief. After all, just lending a listening ear will do wonders.

JOURNAL PROMPTS

Journal writing is a voyage to the interior. – Christina Baldwin

MIND

Meditate on peaceful thoughts. Define those thoughts in detail and write about them.
What takes your mind away from peaceful thoughts?
What is one thing I can do this week to improve my meditation time?

BODY

What do you feel right now in this very moment? Listen to your body and write about it.
How can I honor my body on today?
Does your self-care need improvement? How would you improve it?

SPIRIT

How do you cope with struggles? What set a spark in your soul? Write about it.
Wat am I grateful for and why?
How much you are trusting God with your life right now?

SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS & COMMENTS

Please share what brings peace into your life during grief. What stages of grief are you currently experiencing? Are you familiar with any of the common signs and symptoms of grief? How do you find peace within? How can you write yourself into a peaceful state? Please share your honest response in the comment section. I cannot wait to hear from you.

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you purchase through any of the links (at no additional cost to you).

9 Ways To Find Hope When Grieving

LaPorterSeptember 20, 20212 Replies

Renew Inspiration, Hope, Grieving, Grief — Renew Inspiration

When the world says, “give up.” Hope whispers “try it one more time.” – Unknown Author

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you purchase through any of the links (at no additional cost to you).

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Today, let’s talk about different ways to find hope when grieving. Having hope is having an expectation that something good will happen in the future or that something bad won’t happen. In reality, the death of a loved one or any loss for that matter, may cause you to live with lots of pain and feeling hopeless.

While losing hope when grieving often times happen, it’s important to pause here to remind you that grief can also help you:

Create new and healthy connections
See things differently and in a more positive light
Appreciate life and living more in the present
Take everything as a sign from a higher power or source

As you can see, hope is another one of those words that can be defined on a personal level and may change from situation to situation; or person to person. When I think of hope, I think of beauty and positive vibes. Hope is like a beautiful flower that thrives on sunlight and water. In a spiritual sense, hope relies on your daily commitment to God’s Word, meditation, and prayer.

BUILDING A FOUNDATION OF HOPE

Never lose hope. Just when you think it’s over, God sends you a miracle. – Unknown Author

To begin with, hope is a portion or part of faith. Often times hope is defined in the spiritual sense when God has promised that something is going to happen in our lives and you put your trust in that promise. You find confidence deep down within that something will come to pass because God promised it will come to pass. Remember, hope comes from the promises of God rooted in the work of Christ.

Here’s some steps to help you build a solid foundation of hope that will carry you through the storms of life:

Step 1 – Submit yourself to God. God is the source of our hope. Come to God in humility and He will restore you.
Step 2 – Strengthen your faith. Allow God’s previously fulfilled promises from the Holy Bible to renew your hope.
Step 3 – Trust God’s timing. Remember, sometimes God answers prayers quickly and at other times God allows us to wait.
Step 4 – Thank God today. Every day set time aside to thank God, read God’s Word, pray, and meditate.

Despite what you may be experiencing in your life right now, never stop believing in hope because miracles happen every day.

9 WAYS TO FIND HOPE WHEN GRIEVING

Each day, there is a new beginning, a new chance, a new hope, a new light! – Unknown Author

It’s important to note that everyone experiences grief when we lose something or someone precious to us. After losing our loved one, it can be hard to cope with the shock and sadness. Did you know that having hope when grieving will give you courage in the midst of your storm? Hope is seeing light in spite of being surrounded by darkness.

Here’s 9 ways to find hope when grieving:

Treat each day like a precious gift.
Practice acts of kindness to those around you.
Lean on your faith and prayer during difficult times.
Look for meaning in the most challenging moments.
Show gratitude and compassion toward others.
Reflect on past and happy memories.
Reframe negative thought patterns and shift your expectations.
Lean into honest, authentic connections with people and nature.
Think about the essential goodness of humanity and volunteer.

The importance of hope is immeasurable. Continue to seek out positivity and recognize you can change your life at any point. Many of us need to look forward to the future. Hope is what helps us deal with grief, find positives in our current situation, help us continue searching for something better, and to have faith that everything will work out. Never lose hope. You never know what tomorrow may bring. Until next time, peace, love, and hope to you and your family!

JOURNAL PROMPTS

Grief can be the garden of compassion. If you keep your heart open through everything, your pain can become your greatest ally in your life’s search for love and wisdom. – Rumi

MIND

How do you define hope while you’re grieving?
What is happening in your mind right now in this very moment?
What thought patterns do you have and how do they impact your mental state?

BODY

How can you feel hopeful on today?
What is one of life’s little pleasures that you appreciate?
How do you plan to practice self-care while feeling hopeless?

SPIRIT

What do you need more of in your spiritual life?
What do you hope for each day?
How do you stay hopeful throughout the day while grieving?

SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS & COMMENTS

How do you plan to find hope when grieving? What keeps you feeling hopeful in difficult situations? Please share your thoughts in the comment section.

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you purchase through any of the links (at no additional cost to you).