Episode 17: The Language of Grief (Part 1)

“The Truth will set you free.” - John 8:32 

In this episode, Elizabeth, Brittany, and Anna Gowasack, our Director of Psychological Services, discuss the language of grief. Anna shares her personal journey of finding Red Bird Ministries after experiencing the loss of her baby. Together, they discuss the power of language in the grieving process and how it can help us make sense of our emotions. Anna explores the Dual Process model of grief, which highlights the two orientations of grief: loss orientation and restoration orientation. The model emphasizes the importance of honoring both orientations and giving ourselves permission to navigate between them.  They emphasize the importance of accepting and embracing the grief journey, allowing oneself to feel and express the emotions associated with loss. They also discuss the role of faith and prayer in the grieving process and the importance of being kind to oneself throughout the grief journey.

Takeaways include: 

• Language is a powerful tool in the grieving process that allows us to make sense of our emotions and experiences.

• The dual process model of grief highlights the two orientations of grief: loss orientation and restoration orientation.

• Both orientations are valuable and should be honored, as they provide different ways of processing and navigating grief.

• Giving ourselves permission to move between the two orientations can help us find balance and healing in our grief journey. 

• Having language to understand and navigate grief is essential for the healing process.

• Faith and prayer play a significant role in the grieving process, providing stillness and contemplation.

• Shifting between loss orientation and restoration orientation is a natural part of the grief journey.

• Being kind to oneself throughout the grief journey is crucial for healing and self-care.