09/09/2022
The death of Queen Elizabeth II marks the end of an incredible reign and life - but also, for most people, the end of something steady and constant, that has been there for their whole life.
In this moment, we all feel sadness, as well as many other emotions of gratitude as we reflect on the inspiration and encouragement Queen Elizabeth has brought to so many throughout her life.
But you may find the news is hitting you harder than you'd have expected. Or maybe you know others who are reacting much more emotionally than you realised they would.
It's important to recognise two reasons this may affect some people by triggering some powerful emotions...
The first is that the loss of something so stable, so secure, so steadfast, does lead our minds to question our wider sense of stability. When something we have always known to be there is suddenly gone it can trigger a surprising emotional rush as your mind tries to process what this means more broadly.
And the second reason is of course that SO much has changed and been uncertain or shaken recently. This loss comes on the back of a huge amount of other challenges, and many people are emotionally exhausted or strained, or may have other losses they have not yet been able to work through. This loss, so publicly expressed can βunlockβ other pockets of grief in our minds, and that can feel very powerful. So, in coming days you might find your thoughts dominated by what has happened and struggle to think of much else.
Try not to be drawn into constantly reading or watching the news - that kind of relentless focus may make it harder for you. Instead, limit it to specific times and find a way to channel your thoughts and emotions in those moments. Seek out good spaces to chat, to reflect, and where you can channel your thoughts and prayers - why not visit a local church to light a candle and offer prayers and write in a book of condolence? Or take a walk with a friend and chat about it together. Creating intentional spaces to process will enable your mind to let go at other times.
And if you know someone who seems to be experiencing a very strong emotional response, donβt judge that harshly. Instead, create spaces they can talk with you and help them understand why they might be feeling this way. Finally, alongside the sadness of loss, itβs good to remember good things too. Taking time to remember stories and positive moments, or share gratitude, is powerful in times of grief. So itβs a great time to ponder the amazing blessing Queen Elizabeth has been to us as an example of leadership and courage - and to thank God for her.