how do you cope with the loss of a loved one?

Coping with loss is not easy. You take everything in strides, one step at a time, even baby steps at a time. You live each day, one day at a time. You cry all the time, then you try to cry less, and allow yourself just five minutes each time. Until you reach a point when you can no longer cry, as if the tears have dried up, your tear glands have given up. .. And all you can do is remember the good times, the happy moments, then you find yourself smiling whenever you remember your loved one. You forget the trauma and the drama of your loss. Why? ... Because our minds and bodies are programmed for survival. We cannot go on living in misery or despair, or our minds and bodies will give up, wither and die too.

"In grieving, do it in the person's name.
Find strength in death.
Touch on the pain.
Through pain, you can relate with other people.
They teach us that it is okay to feel the pain.
Remember your loved one and do things in his name."
(Iyanla Vansant)

I learned this in Oprah's life class .... you will too.

betsisanders / July 2012