Resources For Grief Blog
Welcome to this online journal for caregivers to the dying or bereaved—important and challenging work, for sure! My goal is to support you by providing inspirational thoughts, pertinent resources, and suggestions for self-care. With appreciation for all you do!
- Rebecca Hauder
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Reminisce about Happy Memories!
August 14, 2018
"Memories are a key not to the past, but to the future." ~Corrie ten Boom
As I was looking through an old photo album from my college days this morning, I ran across a picture of Joan (name changed) with an "old flame" on the ski slopes of Colorado. I broke into a smile as I thought of how much fun we had, and how utterly different her life would be if she would have ended up marrying Joe! My morning spirits were boosted, and I even jotted Joan an email with a copy of the photo, thinking she'd get a smile too.
A recent article in Entrepreneur magazine* says that "Nostalgia makes us happy. Nostalgic feelings, or reminiscing about our past, can help us reconnect with feelings of
love and a sense of wonder and fulfillment. Our past shapes us and defines our identity. When we remember good times and happy memories, we can increase our self-confidence and feel closer to those around us."
After the death of a loved one, people often experience a degree of healing by recalling happy times with the person who died. And even when there are unpleasant memories, healing and peace often comes when they are brought into the open, rather than denied.
If nostalgia does indeed contribute to our happiness, then what pleasant memory comes to your mind this day? If you can't think of any, just take a look at some old photos!
Until Next Time, Rebecca Hauder, R.N., LCPC
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