Perspectives
SCG Staff Articles
The Intersection of Grief, Joy, and Gratitude
Grief is unpredictable during the holidays. One moment, you can feel okay, and the next, a familiar scent, a holiday song, or a family tradition can open the floodgates of memory and longing.
In the therapy room, I often describe grief as love with nowhere to go—a form of attachment energy that continues to reach for connection. And that’s exactly what it feels like for me now. My mother’s absence carries the quiet echo of her love, still shaping the contours of my life in subtle, everyday ways. Allowing myself to feel that ache, rather than fight it, has become an act of self-compassion.
It’s The Most Wonderful Time of the Year… Or is It?
If we are honest with ourselves, we’ve all experienced this “and moment” at one time or another during the holiday season. We often encounter unexpected curveballs and overwhelming realities that leave us questioning if this is truly the most wonderful time of the year.
So, for those who are unsure about, or maybe even dreading the holiday season… here are three coping strategies to help you prepare mentally for the holidays….
I’m Not Your Black Superwoman
For most of my life, I always strived to be the quote-on-quote “Strong Black Woman”.
A woman who exudes strength.
A woman who is fierce and protective of her own.
A woman who takes care of everyone and everything without remorse,
A Black Superwoman.
A Heart of Gratitude: Holiday Edition
Living in a state of gratitude is focusing on what we have rather than what we lack. It is our never-ending choice to take the time to pause and appreciate the things we often take for granted. Remembering to rejoice always in times of sorrow and in times of joy. Remembering to love our neighbors as we love ourselves while being grateful for those who paved the way and poured into our lives.