Grief Digest Articles

For decades, the Great Banana Sticker War raged on, fought with stealth and sticky yellow badges of honor. It began simply enough – a father's playful impulse to stick a Chiquita banana label on his young daughter's back, sending her unwittingly into the world wearing the fruit company's iconic logo. She discovered it hours later, after countless knowing smiles from strangers, and thus began an epic battle of wit and adhesive. No occasion was safe. Birthday parties became tactical op …

Photo via PexelsBy Jackie WatersPrioritizing mental well-being is more important than ever, but it can be challenging to know where to begin. While traditional methods have their place, exploring innovative strategies can offer fresh perspectives and solutions. From pursuing an online psychology degree to engaging in creative activities like pottery, these approaches cater to various facets of mental health. By integrating these diverse methods into daily life, individuals can foster a dee …

© RICHARD BELFORD In this life no one is promised tomorrow, and we often leave or are left wishing we had just five more minutes.  This makes grief one of society’s most misunderstood and profoundly difficult experiences that cannot be resolved by closure alone if there is even such a thing, but by the slow measure of acceptance that only the passage of time and words of comfort can provide. I believe my words can provide that comfort and if I were allowed a single thought about …

Nan ZastrowWhether it’s’ your First Noel or the persistent tenth after the death of a significant loved one, it’s likely not going to be a Rockin Around the Christmas Tree kind of the year. There are painful reminders everywhere about what and who is missing that can’t be ignored. Holidays are all about family, friends, and connections. While some bereaved just prefer a Silent Night.It’s not unusual for a griever to choose to have a Blue Christmas and not come Home for the Holidays this ye …

By Janice Gorey Jackson“I can’t believe we’re here. We’ll see this amazing view every single night,” I said in a hushed tone to Chris, my husband of almost five extraordinary years, who sat beside me in the living room of our rented Air BnB apartment in Montmartre.I stared out through the glass doors of our Juliet balcony beyond the familiar Parisian Mansard style rooftops to Sacre Coeur, that iconic white domed church atop the highest point in Paris, lit up brilliantly, a stark contrast …