In this episode Gia and Karen discuss an article about grief we recently read that was titled “Everything Doesn’t Happen for a Reason” by Tim Lawrence. We dissect the article and find plenty of statements to disagree with, to validate, and to further explain. The conversation covers these interesting points:

• What “everything happens for a reason” means and doesn’t mean
• Suffering is not a requirement for growth but can be a catalyst
• Grief is a process and may look different to us at different stages in the process
• We have to hold both perspectives: (1) Suffering is terrible AND (2) it is possible to grow and transform as a result of our suffering
• Deep love makes us vulnerable to suffering and loss and can break our hearts open
• How finding meaning in our suffering helps us carry the pain
• Self-compassion is necessary to get through time of suffering
• Why saying nothing can be the best thing to do during times of grief
• What to do for a grieving friend

Here is a link to Karen’s blog for more suggestions: Grief: How to Help in Difficult Times

We know that grief is an individual process, unique to each person who experiences it. But it is also a universal experience–something we all share as part of life here on Planet Earth. We hope you find comfort and peace in knowing that we feel the pain of life, too, right along with you. Send us your comments! We are sending you our love!!

Gia and Karen

xxoo