Imagine the dreadful consequences of the loss of a loved one for yourself, and for your children. Perhaps it may feel like life has lost its meaning, but it is precisely through journey of seeking and knowing the meaning in one’s life that an individual feels accomplished.
Logotherapy was developed by the neurologist and psychiatrist Viktor Frankl, and it distinguishes itself from different kinds of therapy by focusing on the meaning of the patient’s future instead of trying to make sense of the patient’s past. If you are currently dealing with grief, here are four questions based on the premises of Logotherapy that anyone can ask themselves to deal with grief.
1 – How am I changed by this experience?
You must first know where you are to determine if you are going in the right direction. The answer to this question provides meaning to the current situation you find yourself in.
2 – How can I go on?
This question provides you with logical support in your journey. Whether you only find one way to go on, or come up with a list of multiple reasons, you must always look back to the answer of this question to remind yourself that you are capable of carrying on.
3 – What is the purpose of this experience for me?
Think about your purpose in life. What is it that only you can do, and no one else can. Combine the answers of the previous questions to learn what is it that only you are capable of doing, specifically after this tragic event. What new purpose do you find in your life?
4 – What would have happened if you had died first, and the person who died would have had to survive you?
Attaching meaning to the death of a loved one is crucial to moving on. Imagine how that person would have suffered with your death. You have sparred her of this burden, at the cost that now you will have to survive, and mourn their death.
I hope these questions helped you reflect and find new meaning. If you wish for your child to have a support group, or to interact with other families going through similar experiences, you may consider becoming involved with New Hope For Kids.
New Hope For Kids is a 501(c)(3) registered nonprofit organization, and it is the largest independent grief support center in Florida. Their programs concentrate on children, ages 3 – 18, and families coping with life-threatening illnesses or the death of loved ones. Their mission is to support children and families grieving the death of a loved one and to grant wishes to children with life-threatening illnesses in Central Florida. You may volunteer, or contribute to New Hope For Kids by visiting their website.