In less than a week, it will have been five years since California went into COVID lockdown - an anniversary that serves as a benchmark for people all around the world. Since then, we have all gone through our own journeys, each of which seems almost bizarrely unique for having gone through the same pandemic.

Another Valentine’s Day has come and gone, leaving many people with a quiet ache, a reminder of what hasn’t happened yet. It can feel like you’re standing still while the world around you moves forward—friends getting engaged, starting families, celebrating anniversaries—while you’re left wondering if love is something meant for you at all.

The holidays have come and gone, and for many, the new year brings a sense of renewal and fresh beginnings. But for those grieving, January and February can feel like an emotional minefield. While others seem to have moved on - returning to routines and looking ahead - you might still feel the weight of sadness, longing, or loneliness. 

Loneliness, especially in grief, can be a self-reinforcing cycle—feeling lonely often leads to further isolation, which only deepens the loneliness. So how can you break this cycle and find connection while carrying the weight of grief?

The holidays can be a time of joy and connection, but for those grieving, they often come with unique challenges—especially when tension or conflict arises among family and friends. Grief affects everyone differently, and during this emotionally charged season, differing ways of coping, unmet expectations, or unresolved feelings can lead to friction. Navigating these tensions requires understanding, communication, and self-compassion. Below are ten ways to manage conflict and tension that may be helpful for you.

A film about a young man with brain cancer in search of community, and the hospice doctor who gives up everything to honor his dying wish.