In this gentle and heartfelt solo episode, I reflect on the first year of grief and the many emotional “firsts” that come with loss: The first birthday, Christmas, holiday, anniversary, and even the first unexpected moment of laughter.

I share personal stories, including how my husband Bill and I now honour our son Matthew’s birthday, and why we’ve chosen sunshine over tradition when it comes to Christmas.

I also explore the emotional weight of anticipation, the quiet moments that catch us off guard, and the small, meaningful rituals that help keep love present in our everyday lives.

This episode is for anyone navigating the painful first year, or supporting someone through theirs, or simply trying to understand the complex, unpredictable journey of grief.

You’ll be gently reminded that:

• There’s no right way to grieve—only your way
• It’s okay to feel joy, guilt, longing, and laughter all at once
• Even in grief, there are glimmers of love and connection

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Grief and loss are experiences we never ask for but they shape us in profound ways.

In this deeply personal episode, I open up about my own journey through grief: the loss that shattered me, the heartbreak I never expected, and the surprising gifts that emerged from the pain, such as clarity, resilience, compassion, and a deeper connection to life and much more.

This conversation is an honest invitation to see grief as more than something to “get through.” Instead, what if we approached it as a sacred journey, a path that, while brutally painful, can transform us in ways nothing else can?

Whether you’re grieving a loved one, navigating a major life change, or supporting someone through loss, this episode will help you:

• Understand the hidden lessons and gifts in grief
• Find meaning and hope during painful seasons
• Embrace healing while honoring your loss

Grief can break us but it can also open us.

If you’ve ever wondered how to keep going when life falls apart, or how to show up for someone who’s hurting, this episode is for you.

Connect With Louise Bates: https://linktr.ee/louisebates

If this episode moved you, please consider leaving a review and sharing it with someone who might need it.

You help this show reach others walking their own path through grief.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode I dive deep into the classic concept of the five stages of grief—denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance.

But are these stages really universal? And do they truly reflect your unique grief journey?

Join me as I explore:

• The origins of the five stages and why they’ve become so popular.
• Common misconceptions and myths around grief stages.
• How grief is a deeply personal experience that doesn’t always follow a set path.
• Ways to recognise and honour your own unique process of healing.
• Tips for supporting yourself and others through grief, beyond the stages.

Whether you’re grieving a loss or supporting someone who is, this episode will help you find freedom from expectations and embrace your own authentic grief.

Tune in and discover why your grief story deserves to be honoured on its own terms.

Recommended reading: On Death & Dying by Elizabeth Kubler Ross

Connect with Louise Bates: https://linktr.ee/louisebates

If this episode moved you, please consider leaving a review and sharing it with someone who might need it.

You help this show reach others walking their own path through grief.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.