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In this deeply emotive episode of The Day After, hosts CJ and Ashley engage in a heartfelt conversation with their guest, Melanie, about navigating the complexities of grief and spirituality following the loss of a loved one. 

CJ opens up about embracing personal spirituality and finding persistent connections with those who have passed away through memories and love, which aids in moving forward. The discussion delves into the profound changes in identity and family dynamics that accompany loss, emphasizing the integration of grief into life's journey.

Melanie shares her poignant story of losing her father to Alzheimer's at a young age, detailing how the illness and his eventual passing in 2019 reshaped her family's structure and her own identity. She uses the metaphor of an ever-filling room to describe the evolving presence of her father's memory in her life. The episode explores the tension between traditional beliefs and personal spirituality, with CJ and Melanie recounting their experiences with mediums and spiritual advisors, offering insights into how they maintain connections with their deceased loved ones.

The hosts also reflect on societal expectations surrounding emotions and the often-inadequate support systems for those grieving. They discuss the timing of grief, debunking the misconception that it conforms to designated mourning periods. Melanie candidly recounts the emotional turmoil and internal struggles she faced, compounded by her divorce shortly after her father's death.

Listeners will find resonance in the discussions of grief's impact on relationships and the importance of seeking support while acknowledging the difficulty of asking for help. The episode wraps up with a critique of bereavement leave policies in workplaces, advocating for more compassionate and flexible approaches to support grieving employees.

Join CJ, Ashley, and Melanie for this touching and insightful exploration of love, loss, and the enduring thread of connections that outlast physical presence. This is Part 1 – stay tuned for Part 2, coming in 2 weeks!

A personal note from the hosts: After much reflection, we've decided that this season of "The Day After" will be our final one. It has been a profound honor to share this journey through grief with all of you. As CJ steps back to focus on other ventures, we want to express our deepest gratitude for your support, your stories, and your willingness to navigate these difficult conversations alongside us. Though the podcast is ending, we hope the conversations about grief and loss continue, and that our episodes remain a resource for those who need them. If you've found comfort in our discussions, Ashley and Liz will continue Sit, Lay, Rest - our pet grief podcast - you can follow them on Instagram at @sitlayrest. Thank you for being part of our community.

Music by Servidio Music