Gratitude Can Help You Get Through Tough Times

Posted on September 30, 2020 by American Heritage under Grief & Healing
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Gratitude Can Help You Get Through Tough TimesThe death of a loved one can stir up a range of emotions you have never felt before. While it may be natural – and even a necessary part of the healing process – to focus on what you have lost, gratitude can go a long way in getting you through tough times. Gratitude is a healthy coping mechanism when dealing with loss, although you may feel there is nothing to be thankful for immediately following the loss of your loved one.

When you look around you, you will realize that there are plenty of people and little acts of kindness to be grateful for. Gratitude can be a good way of honouring the life of your loved one: contribute to a cause they supported, indulge in an activity they loved, and many more! Below are some of our suggestions on expressing gratitude when it is difficult to.

Note down the small acts of kindness people extend to you

Following the death of a loved one, it is normal to be so consumed by grief that you overlook the small acts of kindness people extend to you. From your neighbour who left that casserole on your doorstep to your boss who told you to take as much time as you need, kindness is all around you. Just because you lost a loved one doesn’t mean you will never experience anything good again. Note down these small acts of kindness as they happen to you and pretty soon, you will have a notebook full of the ways people care.

Pass on those acts of kindness

Some days, it can feel like even getting out of bed is a huge achievement. Taking things one day at a time can help, and a small way you can express your gratitude is by passing on acts of kindness that have been given to you. You can even do it in the memory of your deceased love one by donating to a cause they supported, doing a charity run or volunteering. Or why not send a thank you card to your friends and family who have been concerned about you?

Count your blessings every day

Think of three specific things to be thankful for every day. They do not have to be very complicated things – you can simply be thankful that the sun rose again today or that the birds are singing. Above all, keep in mind that research has shown that focusing on gratitude increases positive emotions. You are slowly and surely moving ahead in the healing process, and your loved one will always be there with you.

Focus on Life with A Meaningful Funeral Service for Your Loved One

It can feel like it’s easier to take care of things as simply as possible following the death of a loved one. However, someone has to say it: you can never go back and do it over. Let American Heritage Cemetery Funeral Home Crematory craft an unique and meaningful funeral service you will be thankful you held in the years to come.

If you need help planning a suitable service for your loved one, contact us through our online form today. We walk you through the entire process to ensure the most stress-free experience so you can focus entirely on your loved one.