Embarking on the journey of dealing with loss, regardless of its form—a loved one, a job, a home, or a cherished way of life—can be an incredibly challenging path. Especially in these times, with the lingering effects of the pandemic, loss has become a pervasive experience. It’s likely that we all know someone who has faced the departure of a friend, parent, or beloved in the past two years.

Recently, I said goodbye to my father. On November 15, a day coinciding with the onset of Lent, his soul transitioned to the Beyond. He departed gracefully, surrounded by caring souls, just as I had always envisioned for him. While I rejoiced in the gift of his peaceful passage, I also recognize the need for my own time to grieve.

In my heart, I hold a steadfast belief that the Soul is Eternal. Perhaps one of the most liberating experiences lies in the separation of soul from body, as it returns to the Source, to the Divine Creator from whom it originated.

The weight of loss isn’t borne by those who depart, but by those who remain. Our souls weep, for life as we knew it will never be the same again. While the world continues its ceaseless march forward, the world of the grieving stands still, enveloped in the depths of sorrow.

In her book, “On Death and Dying,” Swiss-American psychiatrist Elisabeth Kübler-Ross outlined the five stages of grief, which subsequent experts supplemented with two additional stages. Each of us will traverse these stages, albeit in our unique way, influenced by the nature of the loss and the circumstances surrounding it—whether anticipated or sudden.

1. Shock and Denial: This initial stage is often characterized by profound emotions, as if one is witnessing a life that belongs to someone else. Some may experience a sense of numbness, detachment, while others might grapple with physical symptoms like nausea, insomnia, loss of appetite, or even palpitations.
2. Pain and Guilt: As the shock gradually wanes, the raw pain of loss emerges. At times, this pain may feel insurmountable, making it seem almost impossible to confront. Simultaneously, feelings of guilt may surface—pondering on things left unsaid or undone, wondering if there was anything one could have done to alter the course of events. Sometimes, guilt arises even in situations where reconciliation was simply not possible.
3. Anger and Negotiation: It’s entirely natural to seek negotiations, to yearn for an extension of time with our cherished ones, to wish for a different outcome for their departure. Feelings of anger may also arise, directed at those who may have, wittingly or unwittingly, contributed to the loss, or even at a higher power that didn’t prevent it.
4. Depression and Loneliness: At this stage, the reality of the loss may hit harder, especially as attempts at negotiation prove futile. It’s not uncommon to withdraw from others, seeking solace to cope with the pain. It’s crucial to recognize that this stage, too, is an integral part of the healing process and will eventually pass.
5. Emerging from Mourning: This stage may subtly dawn, with the realization that the pain has lessened, perhaps the sorrow has lightened, and a sense of ease begins to trickle in.
6. Reconstruction and Healing: Gradually, you may start to feel a sense of control returning to your life, a tentative step towards overcoming the grief.
7. Acceptance and Hope: Acceptance of loss doesn’t signify simply “getting over it.” Rather, it’s about embracing a new normalcy, acknowledging the loss, and viewing it through a different lens. Instead of being overwhelmed by waves of sadness or regret, you’ll find the capacity to reflect on the moments of joy and beauty shared.

Each of these stages is a significant moment, a part of the process of grieving and healing. Yet, this journey need not be traversed alone.

In these moments, encircle yourself with those who offer genuine support, free from judgment. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance if you feel the need, and be especially tender with yourself and your physical well-being.

Though appetite may wane, a comforting soup, a vitamin-rich smoothie, or even Bach flower remedies or homeopathic aids like Ignatia CH200 can provide gentle sustenance. Likewise, teas infused with linden, chamomile, holy basil, rose, lavender, valerian, or marigold, soothing baths with floral salts, and a tranquil massage with essential oils can offer solace.

Above all, extend compassion towards yourself. Refrain from self-judgment and grant yourself the gift of time. At present, I’ve dedicated an entire week to simply being, amidst nature’s embrace, close to the sea. This has proven to be the balm my soul needs.

Nature itself exudes a high-frequency energy, and the closer we draw to it, the more harmonious our inner world tends to become.

Find ways to honor your loss. If you’re navigating a divorce, cherish the beautiful moments and acknowledge the person you’ve evolved into, no longer resonating with that union.

For those who’ve bid farewell to a loved one now dwelling in the Heavens, honor them in ways that embody their essence, their culture, their life, and their passions. This could take myriad forms—craft something in their memory, be it a recipe or a painting; plant a tree; prepare a sumptuous meal in their honor; or explore a corner of the world your dear one dreamt of witnessing.

Whatever feels right and fitting for your circumstance is welcome. Each of us processes these moments in our own way.

What remains paramount is the memory and the gratitude for the role this stage has played and continues to play in our lives.

One of the things I asked of my father’s soul was to signal his departure in the form of a dove. Twice, a pigeon visited me on the terrace before my father took leave of us. Countless times, in the most unexpected circumstances, I stumbled upon feathers in my home—a phenomenon I cannot rationally explain, given that all our windows are netted, and feather pillows are nowhere to be found. The universe communicates with us through signs, and those with open eyes will grasp their significance.

Post-funeral, seeking a moment of solace to honor my father’s soul in my own way, a magnificent dove graced me with its presence. It lingered, even offering a melodic serenade. Quietly, it allowed me to capture precious photographs, leaving behind an indelible memory.

For me, it sufficed to feel that everything is imbued with a greater purpose, beyond the scope of our understanding in this dimension. Everything unfolds for us, for the evolution of our Souls.

To my father, I can only offer gratitude for his myriad gifts and express profound appreciation for allowing Life to course through me as well. I’m thankful for your role in my narrative. Farewell, on your serene journey amidst the Angels. Until we meet again!