I Am A Griever

Birthdays, Anniversaries, and Other Special Days

When we are grieving, some days are more difficult than others. Grief comes in waves like the sea and can feel like an intertwining labyrinth of emotions. Birthdays, anniversaries, and special dates that are associated with our loved one who has died can contribute to more emotionally intense days which can be worsened through the anticipation and “what ifs” of the upcoming day. These difficult days can leave us feeling defeated and it can almost feel like we’ve taken two steps backward in our grieving process, but grief does not have a timeline, and these feelings of setbacks are opportunities for healing.

Community Grief Toolkit [Downloadable!]

This toolkit also reflects on how we support grief in the community. The tools to come together and honour our collective experiences and how to build the resources for further support.

Joyce – A favorite memory with music

Joyce tells a story about her son supporting her and the power of music

Scott – Writing music

Scott talks about the cathartic nature of writing music stories

Joyce – Being gentle on yourself

Joyce explains the importance of being gentle on yourself in grief as you face guilt and should haves

Betsy – You can’t know until you know

Betsy talks about support and what really helps when one is in grief

Lyss – Writing Songs and Words

Lyss shares about how writing songs and words has helped her with intense feelings

Jessica M – A Parking Lot Memorial

Jessica shares how her family gathered after her uncle died during COVID and how her family came up with a creative way of getting together in a parking lot.

The ties that bind; grieving the loss of a sibling

When my three brothers and I were growing up and the proverbial hit the fan, Mum would often say, in a bid to keep her brood calm, ‘Well, at least we are all still here.’ She reminded me of this affectionate saying only very recently. I can still recall how I felt as a child…

Nicole – Grieving as a community

Nicole discusses the power of grieving together as a community. Finding connection and trust.

Angie – My Story

Angie shares her story of being a police officer for 31 years , mental health and grief

Kate – Triggers

Kate discusses how she deals with her emotions when something triggers her grief