Wow, it’s been a while since I’ve been on here. I had all these plans to start off 2019 strong with the blog, but you know what they say “people plan, and God laughs”. Unfortunately, my year didn’t start off the way I anticipated. My grandmother unexpectedly passed away. I consider her one of my best friends, our relationship was one of the most special things to me, and to lose her so suddenly… honestly, just breaks my heart and feels absolutely unreal.
You guys know I love to keep things positive on here, but I also have to keep things real. There’s nothing that hurts more than losing someone who holds such a special place in your heart and your life… And the days that follow are simply strange and confusing. If you’ve ever lost someone, you know that it’s a roller coaster of emotions.
But, I know two things for sure…
One, my grandmother is up in heaven watching over me. She will always fill my heart and life with love. All the special memories and lessons she taught me will be with me forever.
Two, my grandmother would be livid if I let the pain and hurt take over the days that follow her passing. She was so much fun and always upbeat that I know she’d want me to live each day happy and fully for her.
With that said, I want to share some of the things I’ve been doing to feel better on these extremely hard days. These things are by no means magic, but I do believe they help. I know I’m not the only one out there that has lost a loved one, so I’m writing this post in hopes that it can help you when you need it the most.
CRY. Let it all out. You don’t need to be strong all the time. It’s okay to have a breakdown and allow yourself that time to grieve. Don’t hold in your emotions. Allow your body, mind, and soul to have that release it desperately needs. Once you’re done having that good cry… onward!
Exercise. I’ve mentioned this before, and I’ll say it again… working out is my escape. It’s my “me time” and no one can mess with it. It doesn’t have to be hitting the gym hard everyday, but something as simple as bike riding, roller blading, or even taking a walk outside can change your whole mood. For my peeps in Miami, the Key Biscayne Bridge is my favorite when I need a good workout and some fresh air! The point is, exercise not only releases endorphins (which make you happy), but it’s a major stress reliever and a time dedicated to you.
Schedule out your week. The feeling of being productive is like none other. Take the time to schedule in your work hours, lunch with friends, TV shows and/or errands. It gives you something to look forward to, keeps you busy, and most importantly keeps your mind off of things.
Reminisce on the good memories. Something that has been extremely comforting for my family and I through this difficult time is actually reminiscing on all the incredible memories we had with my grandmother. We’ll sit around and just talk about our favorite moments with her, her personality, tell stories that make us feel good and that celebrate her life. I don’t want the sadness of losing her to ever overcloud my gratefulness for having her. Her life and her love deserves to be remembered in the most beautiful and positive way.
Find support from loved ones. Hug someone. Talk to someone. Sit in silence with someone. Connecting with people, especially someone that you love just brings comfort, strength, and support. Honestly, if it wasn’t for my family’s constant love and support, I would be a mess. If you don’t have family around, call a friend. Friends are family too. I’ve always known this, but it’s definitely been reiterated during this time: With those special people in your life, you can get through anything.
Pray. Last, but most definitely not least. I know prayer isn’t for everyone, but for me it’s what brings the most comfort. I whole heartedly believe that my grandmother is up in heaven alongside my grandfather watching over me and my family. I believe she is with God. Believing this and giving myself time to pray, fills my heart with so much peace and acceptance.
so sorry for your loss