I’ve come to believe that even in our losses, we receive blessings. It isn’t always easy to recognize them, but I hope I can help you see what I mean.

These blessings often connect to what we have come to know as the “ripple effects” of loss.   

When tragedy or trauma shatters our sense of meaning, we’re pushed to search for new sources of purpose. We’re also able to recognize that some of what we once prioritized no longer serves us.

Losing our sense of purpose can open our hearts and minds to new forms of fulfillment. It may even give us the courage to revisit long-suppressed dreams, goals, or beliefs.

The spiritual challenges that accompany loss can lead us to redefine what we believe or to reconnect with our faith in deeper ways.

And perhaps the greatest blessing within these blessings is the space they create for gratitude — even if it arrives in small, quiet moments. I believe that the capacity to feel gratitude after loss is essential to healing. Gratitude reminds us that we are still here, that some things still matter, and that hope for our own transformation is still possible.

As we enter this season of Thanksgiving, I’m reminded of the many things I’m grateful for: my family, the gifts Eric brought into my life, our health and the joys we continue to find, and the EricsHouse family — especially our volunteers.

I wish each of you a blessed and gratitude-filled Thanksgiving.