In the aftermath of the darkest night of the year, the Winter Solstice, we awaken to a morning heavy with grief yet illuminated by the promise of returning light. “The Morning After the Mourning” explores the sacred, messy process of allowing grief to move through us—its rawness, its beauty, and its power to transform.

In this episode and accompanying written reflection, we delve into the necessity of mourning, feeling every wave of loss without bypassing the pain. Grief is not something to overcome but something to be held, honored, and embodied.

I reflect on my journey into death doulaship and the profound imprint left by the passing of my closest companion, Vanessa Joy, on November 19th. Her light, her love, and our soulful connection became a masterclass in receivership, depth, and the unrelenting ache of absence. Through this, I mourn not only Vanessa but also the collective grief we carry—the losses of loved ones, the failures of broken systems, and the stolen moments of humanity in a dehumanized world.

This is a space to honor the dead, to let grief flow freely, and to sit in the sacred stillness of the “morning after.” Together, we’ll explore how the messy middle—the breaking apart—is where the seeds of magic and metamorphosis are planted.

Tune in for an intimate reflection on love, loss, rage, and rebirth. This is the deep deep. Sacred sacred.

For readers and listeners seeking the solace of shared grief and the hope of the returning light —

I invite you to follow me on Instagram: @iamelevenxx