Just as those of us in the Mid-Atlantic Region go through summer, fall, winter, and spring, our lives experience changes that leads us through seasons of joy, grief, fear, and anger. The book of Ecclesiastes, chapter 3, indicates the following:

“To everything there is a season,

A time for every purpose under heaven:

A time to be born,

And a time to die;

A time to plant,

And a time to pluck what is planted;

A time to kill,

And a time to heal;

A time to break down,

And a time to build up;

A time to weep,

And a time to laugh;

A time to mourn,

And a time to dance;”

(Ecclesiastes 3:1-4 NKJV)

As we become consumed with the daily totals of those who tested positive for coronavirus, the nation’s death toll, and the passing of our loved ones, one cannot help but to think of their own mortality. At the same time, there is a section of our population who are dealing with unemployment, business closings, financial uncertainty, health challenges, pending evictions, or foreclosures.

During the past several weeks, my husband has experienced multiple losses. His most recent loss seems to have elicited strong emotions and memories from over 20 years ago. While my husband’s healing journey has fluctuated, he has had to rely on prior coping skills to progress through his season of grief.

Grief is a part of life that none us will escape. As a result of this, we experience an array of emotions which can range from sadness and confusion to anxiety and guilt. Oftentimes, grief is synonymous with the loss of life. However, loss is manifested in a few ways. In addition to death, physical loss can include our senses (i.e., sight, hearing, etc.), our limbs due to amputations, or a health condition that has negatively impacted daily living. Similarly, we can experience loss socially in areas of our relationship status, standards of living due to socioeconomics, or the transition from employment to retirement. Unfortunately, loss can occur physically and socially simultaneously.

Below are some transformational strategies and self-reflection questions to support your healing journey:

• There is no time limit on grief

Sometimes family, friends, and acquaintances believe that after a perceived timeframe the grief process should be over. It is important to understand that everyone grieves differently.

• Limit isolation

While it may seem easier to hide, it is beneficial to maintain contact with loved ones and friends. Please consider allowing others to support you during your healing journey.

• Acknowledge emotions

The healing process comes with a litany of emotions that will fluctuate daily. As a result, we tend to suppress our feelings. In the event your emotions become too difficult to manage, please contactone of the help lines located on the resource page and/or seek professional help.

As you engage in self-reflection, ask yourself the following questions:

1. What season have you found yourself?

2. What progress and/or challenges have you experienced during your season?

3. If you experienced challenges, what strategies have you implemented to address them?

Thank you for taking the time to read this post. I wish you the best on your healing journey.