When We’re Taught To Ignore Grief

When cat Pookie died, I couldn’t stop grieving. I was 40+ years old and had never had a pet before. I hadn’t realized how much I had missed out on in life. Pooks showed me.

People tolerated my grief for a while and then got tired of it, perhaps they were embarrassed for me. They told me I should just get over it and move on. 

It wasn’t that easy for me. 

Have you ever experienced anything like that?

Most people in colonized societies are not comfortable with grief, encouraging grievers to move forward so things can get back to normal. I suspect that means get back to normal for them. When you’re mourning a beloved animal companion, what does “normal” even look like?

Photo by Zander Bederi on Unsplash

If you’ve been there, or are now navigating your way through it,. I see you. Your grief isn’t too much. It’s not silly. It’s not a phase. Your beloved animal is not "just a......". It’s love learning to live without a physical body in sight, without a familiar touch.

Some very real questions grief brings forward:

• what now?

• how do I carry this?

• where do I find help that doesn’t discount or minimize what I feel?

I Can Help

The way people are taught to ignore and dismiss grief is deeply embedded in a colonized society. AND it is still possible to discover your agency to walk your own grief path.

If you’re seeking a compassionate approach and support after receiving a grave prognosis from your vet, or if you want to connect with an angel animal, let’s talk. My 1:1 session Freshen, supports you as you are going through this challenging time.

Freshen can help:

• for some insight into how they’re feeling and what their wishes are

• for a direct conversation with them

• connecting with an angel animal

• for a sense of continuation with an angel animal

For both returning and new clients, the first step is to schedule a 1:1 30 minute free discovery call so we can get to know each other and explore together what this means.

My work is centered in animism and the deep, embodied knowing we all do better when ALL creatures do better. Animals and humans are kin, sentient beings with their own agency, not pets and owners. Sessions are a safe space for you both to communicate what you need each other to hear at that given time.

I am honored to accompany you and the animals on your very unique and special journey.