Learning this early in my grief journey was so important. We talk about Richard – not in a sad way, but in a way that brings us joy. He is part of our lives and always will be.

I hear people say things like “he was my brother or she was my wife.” I am not saying that is wrong but I don’t think death ends the relationship. Richard is my husband. My father is deceased but he is still my father.

I am not a grief expert but I would encourage those grieving to say their person’s name, share stories about them, keep the door open.