The Power of a Grateful Heart

Here in Milwaukee, New Berlin, and Brookfield, we get a front row seat for Mother Nature’s annual show every fall. By this time of year, the trees may be bare and the evening light, brief. But brisk mornings, the earthy smell of the air, and the sound of leaves crunching underfoot – talk about reasons we love this great city of ours!

All of us at Krause Funeral Homes recognize the importance of focusing on joy and gratitude every day. Our work provides a unique perspective into just how valuable life is. As we help families plan funerals, visitations, receptions, and burials for those closest to them, we see the overwhelming love people have for each other as well as the feelings of pain and grief that accompany death.

Gratitude and grief – both feelings can actually feel magnified as the holidays approach. Often, it’s helpful to have extra assistance and encouragement managing emotions and resetting expectations. Maybe you can relate.

On one hand, you might find yourself becoming more isolated. You turn down invitations, your energy is low, and you’d rather stay home than venture out. On the other hand, you might keep yourself overly busy and have trouble saying no to those around you. Sometimes, this can be an attempt to avoid any sad or painful feelings. But know this: Grief is not something that can be ignored or glossed over. You need to move and work through it – and that process can’t be rushed.

After experiencing a loss, it’s natural to focus on what you no longer have. You think about what’s missing. You ask questions like, “How can I go on without him/her?” You may feel overcome by emptiness, loneliness, and even hopelessness. This is where gratitude comes into play as one of the greatest healing tools available.

Even in the midst of grief, you can feel genuinely grateful for having known the person you lost. Gratitude can provide comfort, as you think about fond memories you shared, life lessons you learned from your loved one, and how you can keep their legacy alive moving forward.

Expressing thankfulness truly can keep you afloat during and help you rise above the loss in a healthy way. Gratitude gives hope, and with that comes the realization that life is a gift.

When you wake up the morning, as you get out of bed and get ready for a new day, think about specific things you’re grateful for in your life. It could be small things, like the cup of coffee you enjoy before breakfast. Or it could be specific to the loved one you lost, like a special outing you took together that you’ll never forget.

Our Krause team knows how important it is to remember the many blessings that surround us. As we enter the holiday season, remember that we’re here to support you and your family whenever you need us.

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