Living Between Two Worlds: Grief, Connection, and Moving Forward

In this heartfelt episode of The Real and Rooted podcast, Lori Kendall shares her deeply personal journey of navigating grief after the loss of her child, Kole. She explores the emotional space between past memories and future hopes, emphasizing the importance of grace, connection, and carrying loved ones forward in many forms.

Key Topics:

•  The emotional landscape of grief and living between two worlds

• How community and space foster healing during difficult times

• Practical ways to honor loved ones and keep their memory alive

• The significance of self-compassion and understanding in grief

• Recognizing and embracing the duality of love and loss

• Moving forward with intention while carrying loved ones in heart

• The impact of vulnerability and authentic connection in healing

• Tools for grounding during emotional crises

Timestamps:
00:50 - Introduction: The importance of facing grief authentically
1:21 - The concept of living between two worlds after loss
2:05 - How identity shifts after grief—what remains and what changes
3:05 - The power of community and space to process grief
4:51 - Sharing Kole’s story: struggles and moments of pride
6:34 - The significance of witnessing moments of pride and loss
8:50 - The importance of giving grace to oneself and others during grief
9:36 - Deciding to step away from a familiar environment to heal
11:23 - Living in parallel realities—the external world vs. internal experience
12:25 - Being present in grief while remaining connected to love
14:07 - Reframing the idea of moving forward—integrating the loved ones we carry
15:40 - The power of safe spaces to grieve and feel seen
16:32 - Questions for self-reflection: who allows you to be real?
17:28 - The importance of keeping loved ones’ names and stories alive
18:35 - Personal rituals and symbols to honor Kole’s memory
19:18 - Embracing the ongoing presence of loved ones in daily life
20:14 - Focusing on the next right step in moments of overwhelming emotion
21:32 - Grounding techniques to manage grief’s intensity
22:08 - Living more in the moment post-loss, less planning ahead
23:15 - Carrying loved ones with us—music, photos, shared moments
24:19 - Challenges of fully living after loss and honoring their memory
25:16 - Resources and support for navigating loss and military transitions
26:16 - The ongoing journey of carrying loved ones into the future
27:36 - The importance of support and being space-holders for those grieving
28:12 - Honoring the balance of strength and vulnerability in grief
29:17 - Closing thoughts: embracing the non-linear nature of grief and love

Resources & Links:

• The Power of Vulnerability by Brené Brown

• Supporting Grief and Loss Resources

• Military Transition Resources

Connect with Lori:

• Facebook

• Website

Keep in mind that grief is non-linear. Remember, you are not alone in this journey, and every step, no matter how small, is part of healing.