Embracing Grief as an Ongoing Connection, Not a Burden
Grief as a Connection
When we lose someone close to us, society often tells us to “move on” or “find closure.” But for me, grief is not something to get over or move past. Instead, I see it as an enduring connection to my loved one, a way to keep their memory alive and celebrate their impact on my life. This perspective has been crucial in my healing journey after losing my beloved sister, Trina.
Celebrating Trina's First Heavenly Birthday
Trina passed away in February 2024, and navigating life without her has been incredibly challenging. However, I’ve found strength and purpose in honoring her memory in meaningful ways. One of the most significant moments in this journey was celebrating her first heavenly birthday. I wanted to turn a day that could have been filled with sorrow into one of giving, love, and remembrance.
A Day of Giving
To commemorate Trina’s birthday, I organized a GoFundMe campaign to raise money for a day of giving in her honor. The response was overwhelming, and with the funds raised, I purchased animal supplies and gift cards. Each gift was accompanied by a business card featuring Trina’s picture, ensuring that her legacy and light were shared with everyone who received a gift. On her birthday, my family and I distributed these items throughout the community, spreading kindness and love in her name.
Celebrating at Her Gravesite
After a day of giving, my family and I gathered at Trina’s gravesite for a celebration that was as vibrant and joyful as she was. We brought cake, food, and music—elements that Trina loved and that reflected her spirit. We also held a balloon release, with each balloon carrying a message of love and remembrance to the sky. It was a beautiful, bittersweet moment, filled with both tears and smiles, as we celebrated Trina’s life and the everlasting connection we feel with her.
Grief as an Enduring Connection
This day of giving and celebration was a profound reminder that grief doesn’t have to be a burden. Instead, it can be a testament to the love and connection we continue to feel for those we’ve lost. By embracing grief as an ongoing relationship rather than something to overcome, we honor our loved ones and keep their memories alive in our hearts and actions.
Moving Forward Together
As I continue my journey of grief, I am committed to spreading this message and supporting others who are navigating similar paths. Whether it’s through organizing events, sharing stories on social media, or creating meaningful merchandise, my goal is to help others see that grief is not something to “move past” but rather a way to stay connected to the ones we love.
By embracing this philosophy, we can find strength in our grief and transform it into a source of purpose and connection. I invite you to join me in this journey, to honor your loved ones in your own unique ways, and to remember that they are always with us, not just in our hearts, but in our actions and memories.