I remember where I was when my Grandma died, but not how I grieved. I was young at the time and struggled to understand what it meant to grieve. Death is part of life and learning to accept that aspect of human experience is a lifelong journey. College is a place to learn, so I decided I would explore the concept of grief at Conn, a safe place. It’s also a place where those who ask for help will receive it. 

My friend was dying and I need someone to talk to. When I asked Rabbi Susan Schein, our College chaplain, for help she graciously agreed to speak with me. I talked to Rabbi Susan and we decided to take a walk in the College Arboretum. Like the Arboretum, grief can take hold of several paths, and the one someone follows is ultimately their choice.

As we continued to walk, Rabbi Susan told me that death is a part of life and that when we think of it, we should remember the impact the deceased had on our life. To lose a relative, or even a friend, should not be about forgetting; rather, it should be about remembering and learning how to better yourself in the process.  

I am dedicating this post to Carole Wallace, a friend and my “surrogate” Grandma who inspires me tremendously to become a better writer and friend. I love you.