35. Identity Reconstruction, Feeling Lost, and Leaving a Legacy | Grief Journeys Pt. 2

This week, we’re continuing our conversation on grief from our different perspectives, including Helen’s loss of her father, Dr. Winfred M. Hope, earlier this year; Dr. Monique Perry-Graves’ sudden loss of her mother, Carolyn Perry, in 2024; and Linda Lockman-Brooks’ loss of her daughter, Morgan Thompson, almost two years ago. In this episode, we’re discussing the concept of identity reconstruction and how our sense of selves has changed since losing our loved ones. We also talk about the weird feeling of the world continuing like normal as if you didn’t have a life-changing loss, and the legacies we hope to leave behind to honor our loved ones.Resources mentioned:Watch Ep. 35: Processing Grief, Letting In Your Support System, & Our Loved Ones’ Legacies | Grief Journeys Pt. 1Grief Is Love by Marisa Renee LeeSome key takeaways from this episode include:Identity reconstruction is the process of redefining your sense of self after the loss of a loved one, whether it was a close friend, a parent, a child, or another relative. Easing back into “regular life” is really challenging after loss. It’s okay to set the boundary that you might RSVP “yes” to something initially, then not feel up to it the day of. The people who really care about you will hold that space for you.What is the legacy you hope to leave behind to honor your loved ones? For Helen it’s immersing herself into the community, for Monique it’s leaving people and places better than she found them, and for Linda it’s infusing a zest for life and connection into everything she does.Mothers are the queens of the castle, but let’s be real: it’s not all ball gowns and glass slippers. On this podcast, we’re giving you a peek Behind the Throne at the privilege and responsibility of wearing the crown. Hosted by Helen Hope Kimbrough - a proud wife and mom of two adult sons - and Charlitta Hatch, a proud wife, married to her high school sweetheart, and a proud mom of two little ones. Get ready as we share jewels with each other and you around all things connected to motherhood!Connect with Us!: Podcast InstagramYouTubeCharlitta’s InstagramHelen’s Instagram