Today is my birthday.

It’s also the third year in a row that my mom, because of Alzheimer’s, doesn’t know it’s the day she gave birth to me.

Someone I love asked, “How do I fix this?”

The answer is… you don’t.

Some things aren’t meant to be fixed. They’re meant to be witnessed.

As a life coach, I’ve learned that one of the healthiest things we can do is stop treating grief like a problem to solve. Grief is love looking for a place to land.

Today, I’m sad.

I’m also grateful that I still get to hold my mom’s hand.

Those emotions don’t compete. They coexist.

We often think strength means choosing gratitude over grief. But real emotional health allows us to hold both at the same time.

If someone you love is carrying a loss that can’t be fixed, resist the urge to find the perfect words. Instead, offer your presence.

“I see this hurts.”

“I’m here with you.”

“Your feelings make sense.”

Sometimes the greatest gift we can give another person isn’t an answer.

It’s permission to feel.

Today I’ll celebrate another year of life. I’ll grieve another year of loss. And I’ll be grateful for every moment I still have with my mom.

All three belong here. ❤️