Grief Is Not Linear, But It Can Be Transformational
Grief doesn't come with a manual. Some days, the weight is heavy. Other days, we feel bursts of joy and guilt ourselves for it. But here's what I've learned in my journey: grief is love with nowhere to go. The key is to give that love purpose — by living in a way that honors the one we've lost.
Tips for Navigating Grief and Keeping the Memory Alive:
- Create Rituals of Remembrance Light a candle, plant a flower, or simply speak their name. Honor their birthday, favorite holiday, or a moment that reminds you of them. For me it's a trip to the beach or watching an episode of the Golden Girls.
- Tell Their Story Share their quirks, wisdom, or lessons they taught you. We keep people alive through stories — they become the threads in our soul's tapestry. One of my all-time favorite stories of Gabby was when she was about 4 years old. Gabby would come to the salon and the team at the salon would love to get her to talk because she had a strong southern drawl. Stephanie that worked with me would ask her over and over what she was going to wear to sleep in and with that strong southern accent she would say "my pajamerersss". Stephanie would ask again and Gabby would get mad and say "I toolldd you already my pajammmmmerssss."
- Make Space for All Emotions There is no right way to grieve. Allow yourself to cry, laugh, or sit in silence. All of it is sacred. Laugh and live. Feel it and release it.
- Be Your Authentic Self Gabby was unapologetically herself. And if she taught me anything, it's this: life is too short to pretend. Be bold. Be messy. Be real. Be YOU!!!
- Practice Daily Kindness Toward others, yes — but especially toward yourself. Healing begins with compassion, and showing yourself grace is not selfish; it's survival. Gabby wasn't always kind to herself but she would chose to help a stranger out no matter what. Gabby gave the ultimate gift to many- life.
- To anyone walking through grief: I see you. And even in the darkness, there is still beauty to be found.
Live boldly. Love yourself deeply. And be kind—always.
In memory of Gabby.