It's a Hard Time of Year for Me. How About You? (Postcard from Portugal)

The start of the year can be a hard time for many people – how about you? I'm Charlene Lam, certified grief coach and curator of The Grief Gallery. In this episode of the Curating Grief show, I check in with my own grief and I have to admit, “This time of year is hard for me.” 

As I walk and talk from the streets of Lisbon, we explore the concept of 'seasons of grief', tying it to significant dates and times of the year that can trigger feelings of loss. 

I talk about the loss of my grief colleague Poppy, and how different losses may require different coping skills. I introduce the concept of the 'terroir of my being', where the influence and loss of loved ones shape me as a person, much like soil conditions affect the flavors of wine or beef. I’d love to hear what this season is life for you and your grief.

00:00 Introduction to Seasons of Grief

00:37 Checking in with my own grief: A Postcard from Portugal

02:41 Coping with Grief: The Loss of Poppy

05:07 The Terroir of My Being: A New Perspective on Grief

08:19 Connect with me

Register for the free monthly gathering of The Grief Gallery: https://www.charlenelam.com/gathering

Connect on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/curating_grief

Learn more about Grief Coaching: https://www.charlenelam.com/

What is Curating Grief?

How do we choose what to keep after a loved one dies? It's a question that many grievers struggle with. Certified grief coach and founder of The Grief Gallery Charlene Lam has an uncommon answer: Curating and exhibitions. In this grief podcast with a twist, you'll hear stories about the stuff, find out how curated objects can help us stay connected to our loved ones, and learn how the lens of curating can help us to make hard choices and even find beauty after bereavement.