Episode 29: The Joy of Remembrance

Send us Fan MailThis week marks what would’ve been my Great-Great Aunt Jerry’s 98th birthday, and it felt like the perfect time for Emma and me to reflect on what it means to honor those who came before us—and to celebrate those who are still here.Inspired by the rededication of the Dr. Rita Smith-Wade-El Center for Intercultural Student Engagement at my alma mater, Millersville University, this conversation explores remembrance as an embodied joy practice—a way of holding gratitude, legacy, and enduring love all at once.As we prepare to celebrate our Gram’s 80th birthday this weekend, Emma and I talk about giving flowers while our loved ones are yet alive, remembering those we’ve lost, and learning how joy and mourning can coexist, especially for children.We also honor Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month and Remembrance Day (October 15), remembering Emma’s twin and our cousin Harlem. And with the help of The Caring Place, we explore how children process grief differently and what it looks like to give them space to remember through love and ritual.This episode is an offering for the ancestors we carry, the babies we carried, and the living loved ones we still get to celebrate.Chapters03:57 — Emma’s perspective on ancestors07:46 — Reflecting on family traditions and memories15:36 — Preparing for Gram’s 80th birthday23:02 — Reflecting on family memories24:45 — The influence of Rita29:36 — Honoring ancestors and grief awareness38:00 — Childhood memories and favorite candies40:19 — Keeping ancestors’ memories alive42:01 — Challenge for the weekChallenge for the WeekFind a photo of one of your relatives—or take a new one with someone you love. Then talk, write, or draw about one joyful memory you share. Honor them now, in love.Resources MentionedThe Caring Place — highmarkcaringplace.comPregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month & Remembrance Day (October 15)Connect with Me:Instagram: @natural_inclinationYoutube: @naturalinclinationTikTok: Amber SessomsLinkedIn: Dr. Amber M. Sessoms, NCSPBluesky: @ambersessoms.bsky.socialFacebook: Natural InclinationWebsite: www.aninclination.comLike, Comment, Share, EngageIf this episode resonated with you, share it with someone who would love these conversations. Engage with the Curiosity Cards and ask the youth in your life about their experiences because you might be surprised by what you learn. Share your thoughts and reflections in the comments or on social media using #LivingIn3DPower. And, don’t forget to subscribe and stay tuned for next week’s conversation!