As the holidays approach, forgiveness often becomes a central, yet challenging, theme—especially in the wake of divisive times and personal conflicts. In this article, we explore what forgiveness truly means and how it differs from reconciliation. Drawing inspiration from psychologist Dr. Thema Bryant, we learn that forgiveness is about releasing ourselves from the pain of what’s outside our control, not about excusing behavior or forcing reconciliation. By cultivating curiosity and compassion, we can accept others as imperfect humans, just as we allow ourselves room to grow and evolve.

The holiday season often brings expectations of joy and connection, but for those experiencing grief, it can be an emotional minefield. Navigating loss during this time invites us to reimagine what joy and connection look like in the absence of loved ones. Grief challenges us to confront the rawness of our humanity while offering opportunities for reflection and growth. It reminds us that life and death are intertwined, and love transcends time and space, enduring in quieter, more contemplative ways.

Finding moments of peace and joy amid grief doesn’t mean suppressing pain—it means honoring it and allowing space for glimmers of light. Whether through a cherished memory, a favorite tradition, or a moment of connection, these small glimpses of beauty coexist with sorrow, teaching us that life is still worth living. This holiday season, let’s embrace the full spectrum of our emotions with gentleness, holding space for ourselves and others. Grief is love transformed, and in its presence, we find a deeper connection to the essence of being human.

In this week’s TGIF, Kerry discusses the paradox of being constantly and consistently informed. Having boundaries and protecting your peace does not mean you are disconnected from the world. “We can still be informed, engaged citizens while prioritizing our own well-being.”

The question I got was fraught with anxiety and pain this week - “Kerry! How do I handle this toxic world in which it feels like everyone is literally at war with one another? I feel helpless, hopeless, and overwhelmed.”

I’m really struggling with how to navigate the relationship with my son. He’s seemed to shut me out and I don’t know how to relate. I feel terrified and hurt, afraid I’ll lose him forever. What should I do?

Last week was tough for me following the mass shooting in Highland Park. Thank you for your patience as I took additional time to cope and process an event that took place very close to home and impacted many people I care deeply about.

I want to figure out a way, maybe even just tools, to continue to smile, be hopeful, and grateful in a world that feels increasingly suffocating.

As much as I try to distance myself from the news, this week was unavoidable. I’ve noticed when I experience bad news, I let anger hold me for a minute and then I get scared.

But this week, I want to talk about how it’s time to rage.

I’ve been stuck on the newsletter this week. In one facet Christmas time is magic, joy, and love… In another, I’m a tired parent of little kids at home, waging a war against Omicron and flying Matchbox cars.

Someone once told me that love and loss are two sides of the same coin. And that the grief we experience feels so great and so unique, because the love we had for the person we lost was so immense and so special.

As I contemplate these coming changes to my life, I recognize there are two parts. The first is how parenting young adults differs from parenting children and teens.

Death is complicated and grief is so personal. I really hate it when people say, “I cannot imagine…” because it’s not that you cannot imagine, it’s just that you don’t want to.

We all experience disappointment, no matter who you are, or how foolproof you think your plan is. It’s a fact of life, and no one is immune.

Transition periods can be stressful…

Beginning a new career

Transitioning from adolescence to young adulthood

Getting married or committing to a life partner

Adding a child to the family…

Is grief a normal response to a pandemic?

This is a question you may ask yourself before giving yourself permission to support yourself or someone else who is experiencing grief.