Losing a loved one, a pet, a job, or a familiar environment… it can be one of the most heart-wrenching experiences. When we lose them, the grief can be profound and overwhelming, creating voids in our hearts that possibly may not be filled again. We navigate through our sorrow, often shifting between seeking normalcy in life and remaining enveloped in our grief.
Pepper was just 15 years old when he was diagnosed with chronic kidney disease, and he passed away within just two days. The easiest way is to get another pet dog but I felt it’s necessary to process the grief and pain because someday we have to deal with the bereavement of loved ones. No substitutes.
Never knew that this little fella had so much impact on us. Since I work from home, I missed calling out to him randomly. Missed him coming to my bedroom asking for snacks in the morning, poking his little head at the door when I’m in the bathroom, missed him walking around the house. I cried so much… missed him coming to the kitchen when I’m cooking. Unconsciously, I was calling out to him while eating a peach the other night. I was plagued with sadness and guilt. Why didn’t I see the symptoms of his illness? Why did I scold him for wanting that extra snack? Why?
No one way to grieve. No right or wrong way to grieve. My husband prefers to sit in quietness and distract himself with cute dogs Tik tok videos. He can’t bear to look at his photos and videos. I prefer to talk about him regularly and looking over the videos and pictures again and again.
We created a shared folder for everyone to drop pictures and videos in it. We had a memorial corner in the house that we go to when we miss him.
We talk to one another about him and share random memories that may surface. Support from close friends and family is so crucial.
Self-care is essential. Enough rest and sleep. Eating well, and engaging in activities that bring peace and comfort.
While the pain of loss may never fully go away, it can become more manageable with time. Grieving is a personal journey. Allow yourself to heal at your own pace and find solace in the cherished memories.
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