Life rarely unfolds exactly as we imagined it. We like to believe there’s a rhythm to life that we can count on. Routines, weekdays, weekends, and holidays that anchor us. But under the surface, life is constantly shifting in quiet — and sometimes not so quiet — ways. We face the reality that grief is a part of the human experience, while holding onto gratitude for the memories and the moments we still have. How do we show up for what’s right in front of us while holding the weight of what’s slipping away? In today’s podcast episode of Integrated Being, I am sharing a heartfelt look into the season of holding space for both grief and gratitude while allowing it to sharpen your awareness of the present moment and bring deeper meaning to the once-mundane experiences of daily life.
Having the Courage to Stay Present: A Moment for Grief & Gratitude
Life is Fragile
There’s tension between living the steady rhythms of life and living with the undercurrent of loss. You may be living in this space now or at some point in the future. On the outside, we still do the daily tasks and routines and things look the same, but inside we feel the weight of this shift.
Relationships evolve in ways we don’t expect. In seasons of loss, we are being asked to notice differently, to appreciate differently, and to hold steady differently.
measured by presence
Knowing things aren’t what they once were pulls me into this sharper awareness of what really matters and where my energy belongs. It’s the quiet undercurrent of loss.
Recently, when I enter this space of change, I’m reminded that life is not measured by titles or accomplishments we stack; it’s measured by presence.
What still exists is in the present. Moments of memory remind you that life is now.
TWO TRUTHS AT ONCE
We can hold two truths at once. Gratitude for the moments we still have and the grief of what’s no longer the same. It’s one of life’s paradoxes. It’s where growth happens.
Consider where you might be experiencing this paradox in your own life. A parent, spouse, friend, a health shift, or a child leaving home. The details may differ for your life, but the undertone remains.
PRACTICE OF PRESENCE
We are all invited to practice the power of presence when things change. It was a surprise to me that the status quo of daily routines has stayed the same, but I suddenly see these mundane daily moments as sacred experiences.
Ask Yourself:
Where do I find contentment today?
What small act of love, care, or giving grounds me?
Where can you see the beauty in today?
Start Simply:
Take 5 minutes to sit outside and just breathe and listen to what comes to you
Write down one thing that matters most to you and allow it to influence your daily routines
Return to the basics of self-care to anchor yourself in the present— eating whole foods, journaling, breathing, moving your body, and gratitude practice
These small practices become the threads that allow you to develop the stability of change. They provide the daily anchors for remaining present in your life when it feels overwhelming.
The COURAGE TO STAY PRESENT
It’s not about avoiding the discomfort but choosing to stay present with it. To hold space for both grief and gratitude. There’s always tension of what was, what is, and what may come.
You don’t need to move mountains and achieve a certain level of success to fully live.
The most courageous act is to simply notice the moment you're in and to stay present with it.
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Thank you for listening in and reading along… I would love to hear your thoughts… Join the conversation & send me an email at elizabeth@integratedbeingllc.com. I look forward to connecting with you & going on this journey of life together.
xo, Lizzie
