What Is a Grief Companion?

If a person can find a safe place to share their pain, they can heal their life.

When I first heard these words, I had been on the grief journey for a year or longer. The truth of this statement resonated on so many levels. But, there was a question, "Where is that safe place?"

Not many people can show up, pay attention, and listen without judgment, criticism, or telling you what to do. In addition, it is so difficult for friends and family to fill this need because they are experiencing their own grief in regards to the person you lost. 

So, when I read the words, "Grief Companion," in Companioning the Bereaved, by Dr. Alan Wolfelt, I felt like I had made an amazing discovery. Actually, I had never heard these words put together in this way! 

I felt validated that I wasn't mentally ill and needed a psychiatrist or that I had an illness and needed medication. It did mean, I had a broken heart which requires a different skill set. 

For me, a grief companion is someone who walks with you through sadness so that you don't get side-tracked, stuck, or lost. They can't take away the pain or take over on your responsibilities. But they can create a safe place for you to share your story, listen to your pain, honor your loved one and help you find meaning and purpose again. Which will empower you to stand, walk, and maybe one day, even run again. 

This is such an important work. I am honored to do it.