collective grief ceremonies
Last year, I discovered grief ceremonies.
It wasn’t my idea. and, until we were in it, I didn’t know how much I needed it or what it would touch inside me —to make room for grief. Not just because we all experienced so much loss in 2020 and continuing into 2021, but because there should be room for our individual grief whenever and however it shows up for us —as normal, human being.
This grief ceremony takes place online —it’s a mainly quiet gathering, where cameras are off and everyone’s story of grief, sadness and loss is prioritized—something that many of us have a hard time doing, finding the time or giving ourselves permission to do.
For one hour, you will be welcomed to give voice, privately, to what needs to be said, maybe for the first time. We’ll journal and light digital candles, and be with our respective grief (of all kinds), and we will not be alone.
Nothing will be solved. Though solace may be found. And, you will not be asked to share anything.
Even if journaling is not typically your thing, giving yourself an hour like this to feel what you feel may lead to clarity, acceptance, release, and depth and much needed self-care. Sometimes, it’s just hard to give that to ourselves, to stick with yourself long enough to relax away from any need to fix things and sink into the gooey center of who we are, and sometimes, it’s just nice not to be doing a thing alone .
Inspired by teachers, friends and fellow gatherers, I offer us this quiet hour together, where emotions are unquestioned and there is nothing to solve, prove, validate or achieve—where everyone’s story matters and you belong exactly as you are.
As they are part of UNDERMININGnormal, this season’s grief ceremonies are just for women, though of course, everyone grieves (and other times, I hold that space).
how to attend
Register here to attend on Sunday 26-Dec 4:00-5:00pm EST
Register here to attend on Monday 27-Dec 7:30-8:30pm EST
Please note: for this gathering, it’s best to attend via computer (as digital candle-lighting may be tricky via phone).
Participating in grief ceremonies is a way to join the UNDERMININGnormal community.
It costs $7.00 to attend, and comes with a month of membership.
You’ll find more details (and can sign up) here.
#underminingnormal #griefceremony
I’ve scheduled the second grief ceremony during our weekly living room picnic hour to potentially make it easier for members to fit it into their schedule. This is a new program and there wasn’t much notice, so I thought we’d hold two sessions.