Currently, I am in Mexico with my boys, we are having a great time exploring cenotes, snorkeling with sea turtles, and eating the best Al Pastor tacos. I treasure this precious time together. Today, I want to share with you something that has been on my mind—a gentle reminder to live in the present amid grief.

It’s a common inclination to postpone certain activities until we feel “normal” again or until the pain subsides. However, what if the essence of healing and finding meaning lies not in the future but in the present moment?

For instance, bringing my boys to a place Collin and I loved before his passing is bittersweet. Part of me hesitated, fearing the pain that would undoubtedly come with his absence, but another part yearned to create precious memories with our children. Before Collin’s passing, our family prioritized exploring different places globally, learning about cultures, and traditions, and strengthening our bond.

Unfortunately, both COVID and Cancer halted our family’s ability to travel. After Collin’s death, I made a commitment to continue this tradition. Has it been hard? Absolutely! Has it been healing? You better believe it!

Consider this as a gentle nudge to embrace the present moment— to seize the day. It doesn’t have to involve an international trip; it can be as simple as finding solace and purpose among the small things. This can vary for each person, but they often include moments of quiet reflection, appreciating nature, connecting with loved ones, enjoying a favorite hobby, or savoring a comforting cup of tea.

Here are a few thoughts to reflect upon:

1. No Perfect Time for Healing: Healing doesn’t adhere to a schedule. Instead of waiting for the “perfect” moment, embrace the small victories, moments of peace, and the support around you right now.
2. Small Moments, Profound Impact: In grief, seemingly insignificant moments—a shared memory, a quiet reflection, or the presence of a supportive friend—carry profound emotional weight. Acknowledge and appreciate these small but impactful moments.
3. Navigating Impermanence: Grief introduces a sense of impermanence. Rather than waiting for circumstances to change, find solace and meaning in the evolving landscape of your grief journey.
4. Crafting a Resilient Narrative: Your journey through grief is a unique narrative. Each day is an opportunity to add chapters to this story—moments of remembrance, self-discovery, and connections that contribute to the tapestry of your healing.

Engaging fully in life amid grief may feel challenging, but acknowledging the present and embracing the complexity of your emotions can be a powerful step forward.