the growth that follows loss
learning to start anew...
Every loss leaves a mark. Some feel like open wounds, others like scars that remind us of the battles we fought, and the lessons we learnt.
Recently, i’ve been faced with a very unique experience with loss. At first, it felt like a piece of me had been taken from me. Then, the feeling of an emptiness that was hard to fill overcame me. But now, within the void, I can tell that growth has quietly started to root.
Loss has its way of reshaping us. It has forced me to confront the fragility of life, and the possible impermanence of everything and everyone I hold dear. At different times, i’ve found myself in tears because the pain felt too much to bear. But that pain took me down the path of self-examination, and discovery.
Through this experience, I’ve come to realise the different representations of loss, and how growth follows them.
loss as a mirror
In the wake of loss, we’re often left to face ourselves. Without the presence of this person I once leaned on, I’ve discovered strengths I didn’t know I had. It has forced me to ask difficult questions: Who am I without them? What do I want for myself moving forward?
Introspecting has felt isolating, but it’s necessary for my growth. It has helped me learn to depend on myself, listen to my inner voices, and rebuild my sense of identity.
loss as a teacher
Loss teaches us to value time and connection more than we already do. It often reminds us to treasure the people in our lives and be present for them.
It’s important that we understand that this truly matters, because it’s easy to take things—and people—for granted.
In the process, we learn:
Gratitude: For the moments we shared and the memories that remain.
Perspective: Understanding that life’s challenges, though painful, are also opportunities to grow.
Empathy: How loss deepens our ability to connect with others who are navigating their own grief.
loss as a path to new beginnings
Letting go is one of the hardest parts of loss. It requires acceptance; a quiet acknowledgement that what’s gone will not return. But by doing that, we create space.
Space for healing.
Space for self-discovery.
Space for new relationships.
The growth that follows loss is never about replacing what was lost. It’s about making the pain into something meaningful enough to enrich the next chapter of our lives.
loss as an unexpected gift
While it may seem impossible in the moment, loss often brings unexpected gifts:
Resilience: I’ve learnt that I’m stronger than you ever imagined. You are too.
Clarity: Loss has a way of sharpening your focus, helping you see what truly matters.
Renewal: As you heal, you find yourself more open to new possibilities, new relationships, and new experiences.
loss as an opportunity for choice
Growth after loss is not linear. It has been a winding path of tears, memories, and gradual acceptance. But every step forward has felt like a testament to my strength.
I’ve honoured what was lost: Celebrated the impact they had on my life.
I’ve intentionally reached for support: Healing doesn’t have to happen alone. I’m glad that I’ve been able to lean on friends, and family.
I’ve embraced the future: Remember, the best way to honour the past is to live fully in the present.
Loss changes us, but it doesn’t have to define us. In the end, it teaches us that while we cannot hold onto everything, we can carry the lessons, love and strength it leaves behind. And in doing so, we honour both the past, and the person we’re becoming.
lulu’s recs for the week
A few things to check out in your free time 👀
To read
The easiest way to keep your friends: One of my favourites showed this to me, and now I’m showing it to you.
Social Capital: The currency of the new rich: I read this on Medium last week, and I found it interesting.
To watch
The Red Virgin: This movie was the perfect story to depict the complexities of love, emotions, and sacrifice. It’s available on Amazon Prime.
To listen
Lulu’s Yap station: The best podcast EVER🙂↔️
Very Apt