Together we have looked at your individual reactions and feelings after the death of your loved one. We have then explored ways of coping which range from relaxation techniques to journal writing and rituals. After that we have learnt how to assist those who are grieving including the different developmental ages of children. And lastly, we have identified abnormal grief reactions in order to identify when our grief goes beyond what is considered normal.

Many people find that after recovering from the loss of a loved one, they have a desire to help others. This can be achieved by doing volunteer work or assisting charities in the area of illness that affected your loved one. Others find that they move forward by setting small goals such as going for a walk and taking up a craft or hobby.

There are no short cuts to working through grief. It is a difficult process which is individual to each of us. We need to work through grief in our own time, and deal with the loss of our loved one in healthy and not destructive ways. If you or someone in your family needs support, get it. Grief can be a very lonely journey if travelling it alone.

One thing to remember after losing a loved one is that death does not end the relationship. It is important to recognise the ways that he or she is still with you and honour these connections as you move forward to full recovery. As you look to the future, decide on new goals, hopes and dreams. Choose to embark
on your journey of life with renewed passion as a result of having known your special person. Your life may never be the same now that he or she is gone, but you are an infinitely better person for having know them and richer for having been loved by them.

To complete this reading, there is one final exercise to assist you with your recovery. Please take the time to complete the questions below. Your answers will help you to realise that your loved one lives on.

  1. What things did your loved one teach you about love?
  2. What things did your loved one teach you about life?
  3. What did your loved one teach you that is important to pass on to others?
  4. How have you grown from knowing and loving your loved one?
  5. How are you different from knowing and loving your loved one?