"Joy and grief can live in the same heart."
Welcome, fellow griever.
This is your Daily Nugget from me, Melissa, your host of The Leftover Pieces.
Today we will share a moment of presence, a breath of truth, and a reminder.
Lean in with me ---
For a long time, I thought joy would be a betrayal—that if I laughed or felt lightness, it meant I’d somehow let go of the person I lost.
"Joy and grief can live in the same heart."
What I’ve learned is that grief and joy are not enemies—they’re companions. Joy is not the absence of grief; it’s the reminder that love still lives here.
When we give ourselves permission to feel joy again, we’re not moving on—we’re moving with. We’re letting our love for them expand into the moments they can no longer experience.
Sometimes joy is a big, loud burst of laughter. Sometimes it’s quiet—a sunrise, a song, the warmth of someone’s hand in yours. And sometimes it’s bittersweet, joy and sorrow woven so tightly you can’t tell them apart.
Both are welcome. Both are human. Both are part of love.
When joy shows up, let it in. It’s not replacing your grief—it’s reminding you that your heart is still capable of holding beauty alongside the pain.
Let's take another breath.
Let this moment be enough.
Keep what serves you, leave the rest
I’ll be here again tomorrow. Talk soon.
__________________________________________________________________________
💜 The Leftover Pieces is support central for grieving hearts.
🔗 Stay connected: Join my free email community for weekly check-ins, resources, and encouragement.
🌟 For moms: Explore the $9 Lighthouse Community — safe connection, tools, and hope.
🛠 Resources for all grievers: Start here.
🤝 One-on-one grief coaching for moms after child loss to suicide: Learn more here.
📞 Need help now? If you or someone you love is struggling with suicidal thoughts, dial 988 in the U.S. & Canada, or text HOME to 741741.
