As a funeral celebrant, I understand the importance of talking about loss and grief. Quiet, alone time is just as important as sharing with friends. Public communication about grief can give us permission to understand and express our feelings and realise that others share our pain. We are not alone.
This year I am contributing to an event for Dying Matters Awareness Week here in Sheffield. Held each May, this national Awareness campaign seeks to engage and encourage all communities and people in Britain to get talking about grief, dying and death in whatever ways might work for them. A calendar of events can be accessed here.
Grief is a deeply personal and unique experience that manifests differently in each individual. The way people deal with grief can vary widely based on their personality, cultural background, support systems, and coping mechanisms.
Here are some ways in which people may deal differently with grief:
Expression of emotions: Some individuals may openly express their emotions, freely crying, talking about their loss, and seeking comfort from loved ones. Others may be more reserved, preferring to grieve in private and internalize their emotions.
Coping mechanisms: People can employ various coping mechanisms to navigate grief. Some may find solace in activities such as exercising, journaling, or engaging in creative outlets like art or music. Others may seek distractions or immerse themselves in work to keep their minds occupied.
Support systems: The presence of a strong support system can significantly influence how people deal with grief. Some individuals rely heavily on the support of family and friends, seeking comfort and guidance from their loved ones. Others may prefer solitude and find solace in self-reflection or seek professional help through therapy or counselling.
Cultural and religious beliefs: Cultural and religious backgrounds can shape the grieving process. Different cultures and religions have distinct rituals, ceremonies, and mourning practices that provide structure and guidance for individuals dealing with loss. These practices may include specific mourning periods, memorial services, or customs surrounding remembrance.
Timeframe: Grief does not have a predefined timeline, and individuals may deal with it at their own pace. While some people may recover relatively quickly and resume their daily routines, others may require more time and may experience waves of grief that come and go over an extended period.
It is important to remember that there is no right or wrong way to grieve. Each person's journey is unique, and understanding and respecting these differences can foster empathy and support for those dealing with loss.
For this event, we have written poems, prose and stories about grief and loss. We have some objects on display that relate to our feelings and memories.
You are welcome to come along during the day or evening. The event is free. We are reading/performing our writing from 7-8pm.
I am involved in this event because I am part of a writer’s group that focuses on writing about grief. If you would like to know more about attending our grief writer’s workshop, see Grief Writers Meet-up.
If you would like to talk to me about telling the story of one of your loved ones as a celebrant, please feel free to come along during the event, or contact me here.
