The Mourner’s Bill of Rights

The Mourner’s Bill of Rights were written by Dr. Alan Wolfelt who founded the Center for Loss and Life Transition in 1983. The center is dedicated to “companioning” grieving people as they mourn significant transitions and losses that transform their lives. A wealth of additional resources and articles can be found at Center for Loss and Life Transition website.

You have the right to experience your own unique grief. No one else will grieve in exactly the same way you do. So, when you turn to others for support, don’t allow them to tell you what you should or should not be feeling or doing.

You have the right to talk about your grief. Talking about it will help you heal. Seek others who will allow you to talk as much as you want, as often as you want, about your grief. You have the right to your silence when you don’t feel like talking.

You have the right to feel a multitude of emotions. Confusion, disorientation, fear, anger, guilt and relief are just a few emotions you might feel during your grief journey. Find listeners who will accept and honor your feelings without conditions.

You have the right to be tolerant of your physical and emotional limits. Your feelings of loss and sadness will probably leave you feeling fatigued. Respect what your body and mind are telling you. Get daily rest. Exercise regularly. Eat balanced meals. And don’t allow others to push you into doing things you don’t feel ready to do.

You have the right to experience grief bursts. Sometimes, out of nowhere, a powerful surge of grief may come over you. This can be uncomfortable for others. It is normal and natural. Find someone who understands.

You have the right to make use of ritual. The funeral ritual does more than acknowledge the death of someone loved. It helps provide you with the support of caring people. More important, the funeral is a way for you to mourn. If others tell you that the funeral or other healing rituals are silly or unnecessary, don’t listen.

You have the right to embrace your spirituality. If faith is part of your life, express it in ways that seem appropriate to you. Allow yourself to be around people who understand and support your religious/spiritual beliefs. If you feel angry with God, find someone to talk with who won’t be critical of your feelings of hurt and abandonment.

You have the right to search for meaning. You may find yourself asking, “Why did he or she die? Why this way? Why now?” Some questions may have answers; some may not. Some people may give you clichéd responses. Comments like, “It was God’s will” or “Think of what you still have to be thankful for” are not helpful and you do not have to accept them.

You have the right to treasure your memories. Memories are one of the best legacies that you have after the death of someone loved. You will always remember. Instead of ignoring your memories, find others with whom you can share them.

You have the right to move toward your grief and heal. Reconciling your grief will not happen quickly. Remember, grief is best experienced in “doses.” Be patient and tolerant with yourself and avoid people who are impatient and intolerant with you. Neither you nor those around you must forget that the death of someone loved changes your life forever.