Can anything good come out of grief?

Recently, during a bereavement support group session, I mentioned that there are many gifts to be discovered along the journey of grief. Visibly taken aback by my statement, a new widow asked, “Is there anything good about grief?” I noted memories as one of the more precious gifts on the journey. Many grievers shy away from recalling even the joyful moments for fear of confronting the pain of their loss. However, other grievers say that reliving memories of their loved ones lifts their spirits, instilling a profound sense of gratitude. Depending on the specific memory, individuals may experience both reactions—joy and sorrow. Some recollections are inherently painful, while others can easily evoke a smile. Memories are not merely a cognitive exercise but are intrinsically tied to deep emotions. Recalling a cherished memory momentarily transports us to a comforting place, providing a sense of solace.

There are other gifts to be found on the grief journey, like personal growth. When a soulmate dies, the grief journey includes a great deal of change in daily living, inviting unplanned development like learning to do new things or adopting another perspective on reality. Deepening our compassion for others is a frequent outcome of the grief journey. Many grievers come to a deeper realization of what the loss of a beloved involves emotionally and physically and the impact it has on one’s spirit. A deeper understanding yields a deeper compassion for others who are suffering a loss. The reason that support groups are so helpful is because there is a whole lot of hard-won compassion in the room.

Joanne Cacciatore, a seasoned griever, psychologist, grief therapist, and author, believes, “The work of grieving is hallowed ground, deserving our pause, our recognition, and hands pressed together at our hearts.” She is absolutely correct.

Miles Funeral Home’s upcoming Sharing Hope Bereavement Seminar will explore Cacciatore’s insights as we delve into the grief journey, viewing it as a natural pathway to softening our hearts, relinquishing control, and embracing the profound mysteries of life and death.

A Path to Compassion: Embracing Death & Becoming Grief Informed

Saturday, March 22, 2025, 1-3 p.m.

Holden Senior Center – 1130 Main Street, Holden

Please pre-register by calling our office at (508) 829-4434 or (978) 422-0100 or using the link below. The seminar is free and open to the public. It includes lunch. Each guest will receive a copy of Joanne Cacciatore’s book Grieving is Loving.

Register