Anyone who has lost a loved one knows that grief is no easy path to walk. It requires, among other things, being kind and patient with yourself. At Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home, our professional team regularly encounters families and individuals throughout the  Big Spring, Midland, and Stanton who are dealing with grief. We’ve noticed the holiday season is an especially difficult time for our neighbors. It’s hard to celebrate Thanksgiving with a heart of gratitude when all you feel is the loss of your precious loved one.

Despite the challenges, we believe it’s still possible to be thankful in the midst of grief. We want to share some of the things we’ve found that help people access a greater appreciation for life at this time of year.

 

Remember how far you’ve come.

Acknowledging accomplishments—however small—can comfort people in their grief. Do your best to surround yourself with family and friends who support you and encourage you in your personal growth. Check in with them regularly about how you’re coping with your grief. Your support network may help remind you of your progress and that grief is a difficult journey without a fixed timeline.

 

Start a gratitude journal.

When it comes to getting into a positive mindset, a gratitude journal is a useful tool to revisit every day. A gratitude journal takes very little time commitment, and all it requires is a blank notebook and a pen. Every morning, try writing five things in the journal that you’re grateful for. If it’s tough to think of something to put down, start free writing and see where it goes. Gratitude is a habit and revisiting your journal daily will help you stick with it.

 

Get out in nature.

Reconnecting with nature may open up access to a deeper place of gratitude. Seeing the larger world may lead you to feel less isolated and lonely. Take a walk on the beach or in the woods if you can. Hike a mountain trail. Go for a bike ride. Getting outside and moving your body helps with processing anxious thoughts and heavy emotions.

 

This time of year, try to keep an open heart and surround yourself with close family and friends. Even in the midst of grief, this Thanksgiving can be a special time to reconnect with loved ones near and far. If you have questions about grief recovery or other services at Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home, reach out to our friendly staff.