Life’s most joyful milestones: weddings, births, and career transitions, are often moments we long to share with loved ones. Yet, when someone dear has passed, these occasions can stir up a deep sense of loss. The mix of grief and happiness can be both unexpected and confusing, as we carry the emotional weight of their absence, amid our celebration. In this article, we discuss how to navigate the feeling of grief through major life events.
Weddings
Your wedding is a celebration of love, but it can also be a reminder of those who are no longer there to witness your joy. Whether it’s the absence of a parent, grandparent, or a dear friend, the emotions of the day may feel bittersweet. There’s often a deep longing to have them present during such an important life event.
How to Navigate It:
- Acknowledge your feelings. It’s okay to feel a mix of emotions on your wedding day. You can be joyful and still feel the weight of loss. Allow space for both.
- Include loved ones in spirit. Find small ways to honour the memory of those who have passed, perhaps by reserving a seat for them, mentioning them in a speech, or incorporating something of theirs into your outfit.
- Take time for yourself. Weddings are intense. If the emotions become overwhelming, take a moment to breathe and reflect. It’s okay to step away for a few moments to gather yourself.
Births
The birth of a child brings joy and new beginnings, but it can also reignite grief for loved ones who are no longer there to share in the happiness. Being a new parent, you may long for the wisdom, support, or presence of those who have passed away, especially during such a life-altering time.
How to Navigate It:
- Give yourself permission to feel. It’s natural to have mixed emotions when welcoming a child, especially when you’re missing a loved one who isn’t there to share in this special moment. You can celebrate the new life while also grieving the absence of that person, as well as the parts of yourself or your life that are changing.
- Lean on your support network. Don’t hesitate to talk through your feelings with loved ones or in support groups. Expressing your grief can lighten its emotional load.
- Create ways to honour loss. If past losses are part of your grief, consider creating a small ritual to acknowledge them, a symbolic act that honours both the past and the new journey of parenthood.
Careers
Career transitions, such as retirement, starting a new job, or facing unexpected changes, can be particularly challenging when you are grieving the loss of a loved one who played a significant role in your professional journey. Their absence can amplify feelings of loss, making it harder to embrace new opportunities.
How to Navigate It:
- Honour their memory. Take time to remember and honour the loved one that you’ve lost. Reflect on how they influenced your career path and consider ways you can carry their legacy forward in your work. This connection can provide comfort and help you feel their presence during these significant changes.
- Express your feelings. Share your emotions with friends, family, or a support group. Discussing your feelings about both the career transition and your loss can help you process your grief and allow others to support you through this difficult time. Journaling your thoughts can also be a therapeutic outlet.
- Allow yourself to grieve. Understand that it’s okay to feel sadness amidst your career transition. Allow yourself to grieve the loss while also embracing the new opportunities ahead. This complexity is a natural part of the healing process and can help you find balance during this time of change.
Grief can often surface during life’s happiest milestones, like weddings, births, and career changes. These moments, while full of joy, often carry the weight of what’s been left behind, including loved ones who are no longer with us. The key to navigating grief during these times is to meet yourself with compassion. There is no “right” way to feel, and making space for your emotions, both the joyful and the sad, allows you to honour the full experience of life’s transitions.
