Healing After Tragedy: Carrying the Weight of Memory

Well, here we are again, facing another anniversary of 9/11. It’s hard to believe it’s been 23 years, isn’t it? For some of us, it feels like just yesterday we were glued to our TVs, watching in shock as the world changed forever. Others of you may have been too young to remember it vividly, but you feel the weight of that day through the stories, the news, the memorials. Regardless of how you experienced it, the memory of that tragedy stays with all of us.

It’s completely normal to feel a mixed bag of emotions this time of year. Grief has a funny way of sneaking up on you—sometimes, it’s a heavy, dark cloud that seems to swallow everything. Other times, it’s a quiet whisper in the background of your day. No matter how it shows up, it’s important to acknowledge it and not push it aside.

But how do we continue to carry the weight of such tragedy without letting it break us? Let’s dive in together, and I’ll share a few things I’ve learned over the years.

1. Acknowledge the Grief

Let me be clear—there is no “right” way to feel on the anniversary of a tragedy. Some of you might feel sad, some of you might feel angry, and some of you might just feel numb. And guess what? All of that is okay. Give yourself permission to feel whatever it is you’re feeling. Sit with your emotions, and if you need a good cry, let those tears flow. There’s no shame in grieving, even if it’s been 23 years.

2. Find Meaning in Remembrance

When we lose something or someone, it’s important to create space to honor those memories. Maybe that means lighting a candle, visiting a memorial, or just taking a moment to be still and reflect. For me, remembrance isn’t about clinging to the past—it’s about acknowledging it and finding ways to make peace with it. Honor the people, the courage, the resilience, and let that remembrance help guide you forward.

3. Lean on Your Community

You know I’m all about the power of community. If you’re struggling with the memories of 9/11 or any personal tragedy, don’t isolate yourself. Reach out to friends, family, or your community. There’s something healing about sharing your story with others, or even just listening to theirs. Sometimes, the simple act of connecting with someone who gets it can be the lifeline you need.

4. Create Space for Healing

Here’s a little secret: healing isn’t linear. There are good days, and there are tough days, and anniversaries like this can sometimes stir up old wounds. The key is to give yourself space to heal—whatever that looks like for you. Some people find comfort in talking, others in silence. Some write, some pray, some scream into a pillow (guilty!). However you heal, make sure you give yourself the room to do it without rushing the process.

5. Honor Resilience, Not Just Loss

If there’s one thing I’ve learned through all of life’s storms, it’s this: humans are remarkably resilient. Yes, 9/11 was a day of tremendous loss, but it was also a day that showed us how strong, kind, and brave people can be. When you reflect on that day, don’t just focus on the tragedy—remember the people who showed up in unimaginable ways, the helpers, the survivors, the unity that emerged from the chaos. That resilience is just as much a part of the memory as the loss.

Final Thought:

My dear readers, as we remember 9/11 this year, let’s hold onto those memories that matter while also giving ourselves permission to heal. It’s not about forgetting; it’s about learning to live with the weight of those memories in a way that honors both the past and our present. And remember—healing is a journey. We’re all in this together, and you don’t have to carry the weight alone. Until next time, keep your heart open, and let’s keep walking this path together, one step at a time.