Cycle 3 Session 13 - Dealing with Loss

Self-Reflection Questions

WHO can prepare you for loss? View stages of grief

WHAT does your soul feel like when you experience a devastating loss? What can you do?

WHERE can you go for help if you find it hard to cope with your loss?

WHY shouldn’t you make major decisions during this time of loss?

WHEN you haven’t had closure, what are some things you can do?

HOW have others with similar losses dealt with their pain? Find support

Stages of Grief can juggle or repeat themselves

*Shock - Paralyzed and emotionless.

*Denial – Know the facts but have not accepted them as your new reality yet.

*Anger – Blaming what was lost on the person or situation that is lost, yourself or your higher power. Easily provoked when the subject is brought up.

*Bargaining – Making unrealistic promises to yourself, others, or your higher power in an attempt to never feel that way again.

*Depression – Sadness, crying, changes in sleeping and eating habits. Aches and pains in the body. Lack of motivation, feelings of hopelessness.

*Testing - Will I lose someone or something else? Finding unrealistic reasons to detach from others or similar situations. 

Acceptance – No longer in denial. No more bargaining to make up for what was lost. Anger and sadness may re-occur during certain times or during special events but you have the ability to acknowledge and express your emotions in a healthy way.

*If any of these *feelings linger you should seek professional help right away.

Self-Reflection Points

Ways to deal with the death of a loved one;

• Cry. Scream. Hit a mattress or pillow. Let out your emotions safely, just keep letting them out.

• Keep something of theirs nearby. Look at it, smell it, hold it tight for as long as you need to.

• Write about how you feel, in song or poetry or a letter, keep a book. Draw a picture.  

• Pray, Pray, Pray. That your emotions don't begin to take the lead in your life. Pushing aside reasonable thinking.

• Don't forget about them. You loved them because they were kind, funny, and maybe even reliable or smart. Sometimes you just love them for no particular reason, just because. 

• I challenge you to keep loving them and making them proud.

 May"The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen."  Rev. 22:21

In memory of my Dad, Mr. Anthony Major. I miss you every day. Love you!