A Celebration Amidst Grief

Have you ever had moments where grief sneaks up on you out of the clear blue? Are you leaning into the emotions of grief from a recent or past loss?

Lately, I’ve realized that I’ve been carrying around some heavy grief. I know what I’m processing, but that doesn’t make it any easier to bear. Grief is exhausting. It can leave you feeling weary, irritable, and emotionally drained. Some days, it’s a struggle to get out of bed.

I’ve had those moments—finding myself easily upset, crying at the smallest things. Sometimes down right cranky and unpleasant.

What does your grieving look like? How does it show up for you? How do you recognize when you’re in a grieving state?

So, what’s the solution? Time and attention are the solutions. Tending to grief with awareness and self-compassion. The more we allow grief to have space in our lives, the less overwhelming it becomes. Over time, the intensity lessens. I’ve come to understand that what I seek is within the pain of grief itself.

The pain holds the answers—it can make us aware of what needs to change or what our hearts are desiring at this time.

But in the midst of all of this, I want to offer something else: A break! A celebration of You!

Yes, you read that right. I’m talking about celebrating you! Celebrating the fact that you haven’t backed down or suppressed your emotions. That you’re not giving in to the pressure to "just get over it." I like to say: I’m not getting over it, I’m getting into it! Allowing grief to have its way with me. Because the truth is, grief is life’s biggest teacher.

Another fact: we don’t get over grief—we go through it. I believe celebrating as we journey relieves us of the need to numb our emotions or tamp them down.

It takes courage to sit with grief. Grieving is not for the faint of heart. But as we journey through it, we don’t have to be consumed by it.

We can take intentional breaks—respite moments to recharge. Taking a break from grief is different from ignoring it. It’s a conscious decision, a healthy distraction. It allows our brains to process growth, integrate healing, and create space for new experiences.

When we step away intentionally, we return feeling recharged and emotionally reenergized. Our bodies have had a chance to relax and realign as well. Staying in a constant state of sorrow can prevent healing from occurring.

I often ask my clients: What would make you happy right now? Their answers often include exciting adventures. But when I ask, Can you go and do that right now? The answer is usually yes. So, why haven’t they done it? Because sometimes, we’re just waiting for permission.

So here it is—I’m giving you permission to take a day to celebrate you. A day off from grieving. A day to remind yourself that joy and sorrow can coexist.

Your Special Day of Celebration

What does a day of celebration look like for you? This is where the fun begins—because you get to create the plan! If you need inspiration, here are some ideas:

• Make a playlist of your favorite music. Play, sing and dance to this list all day!

• Decide if you want company or if this is a solo celebration.

• Wear bright colors—science shows that bright colors can uplift your mood.

• Get creative—make a collage, paint, or sketch. What’s your favorite genre of Art?

• Go for a long walk or hike, bringing a camera to capture the beauty of the day.

• Dream of traveling? Bring the country to you!

  • Love Paris? Visit a French café, watch a French film, or enjoy a good bottle of French wine. Fake a French accent and laugh at yourself. Buy a French beret and wear it all day.

• Bake or cook something new—turn up the music from your playlist and enjoy being in the kitchen!

Now, go plan your day of celebration! I’m so excited for you. And when you do it, drop me a line—I’d love to hear how it went.

Because taking a break doesn’t mean forgetting. It means giving yourself the grace to breathe, to rest, and to find joy—even in the midst of grief.

With Love, Your Doula for Grief

Bonnie Gonzalez

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Grief doesn’t mean the end of joy

If you’re walking through loss and wondering how to keep living—really living—this book is for you. Celebration Amidst Grief is more than a story. It’s a companion. A gentle hand on your back. A reminder that even in the darkest seasons, love still lingers… and life can still surprise you with meaning, beauty, and even celebration. 🌿

✨ Order your copy today—and let your healing begin..

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