What to Expect in Grief
By Patricia D. Freudenberg
In the journey of grief, acceptance is often misunderstood. It is not about “getting over” the loss or forgetting the loved one. Rather, acceptance is the act of coming to terms with the reality of the loss and beginning to adapt to life without the physical presence of the person who has passed. It is a quiet acknowledgment that the world has changed—and so have we.
Reaching this stage does not come swiftly or without pain. It’s marked by a deep internal shift—a moment of peace where resistance gives way to resolution. We accept the permanence of the absence, and in doing so, we begin to breathe differently, not because we no longer mourn, but because we have made room for both sorrow and strength.
In this phase, many begin to reinvest in life, finding new meaning, exploring new relationships, or re-engaging in activities that once brought joy. This doesn’t mean betrayal of the past, but rather honoring it with the courage to live fully.
Research from Stanford Medicine’s Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences supports this experience, emphasizing that acceptance in grief is linked to better emotional resilience, fewer symptoms of prolonged grief disorder, and improved capacity to reintegrate socially. Their studies highlight how cognitive and emotional processing—especially when guided by therapeutic tools or support—can lead to a healthy transition toward acceptance.
So if you find yourself breathing in moments of clarity, shedding tears not just of pain but also of peace, you are not forgetting—you are healing.
Reflection Prompt:
What part of your life has started to shift since accepting your loss? Take a moment to write down one area where you’ve seen growth, peace, or renewed purpose—and how that reflects the love that still lives within you.
Recommendation:
For more guided support, I invite you to read my book, “Live Your Legacy: A New Spin on Mourning,” available on Amazon. It’s written with love to walk beside you through every stage of grief.
Available now on Amazon ⬇️
© 2025 Patricia D. Freudenberg, Certified
End-of-Life Coach. All Rights Reserved
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