Grief and Hope

Lessons from the 2024 Olympics (with a Snoop Dogg Twist)

Photo by Bo Zhang on Unsplash

As the summer sun blazed (and sometimes rain) over Paris, the world's attention was captivated by the spectacle of the 2024 Summer Olympic Games. It's a time of excitement, unity, and hope - a much-needed respite from the weight of global challenges. Yet, as I watched these incredible athletes push the boundaries of human potential, I can't help but reflect on the complex tapestry of emotions we're all navigating.

The Olympics have always been a beacon of hope, showcasing the best of human achievement and international cooperation. This year, that hope feels more poignant than ever. We saw it in the eyes of athletes who've trained their entire lives for this moment, in the proud faces of their families watching from the stands, and in the collective pride of nations cheering for their athletes.

But even as we celebrate these triumphs, we can't ignore the undercurrent of grief that runs through our global community. The world seems to be in a constant state of mourning - for lives lost in ongoing conflicts, for the environmental challenges that threaten our future, for the economic uncertainties that have left so many struggling to make ends meet.

In my personal life, I've been grappling with multiple sources of grief. There's the heartache of watching my mother's memories fade away due to Alzheimer's - a different kind of loss that unfolds slowly but no less painfully. Yet, even in this struggle, I find moments of hope - in a shared laugh, a squeeze of the hand, a fleeting moment of recognition in her eyes.

Simultaneously, I'm navigating the complex emotions that come with leaving my job and company of 23 years. It's a bittersweet transition, filled with excitement for new opportunities but also a profound sense of loss. As I wrote about in my "Summer of Slow" blog, I'm experiencing the gradual shift and sometimes fading of long-standing friendships. These relationships, built over two decades of shared experiences and daily interactions, are evolving as our paths diverge. It's a reminder that change, even when positive, often comes with its own form of grief.

These personal experiences underscore the intricate dance between loss and growth, between holding on and letting go. They've taught me that grief isn't always about dramatic endings, but can also be found in the subtle shifts of our daily lives and relationships. Yet, even in these changes, I'm learning to find new forms of connection and meaning.

This interplay between hope and grief isn't unique to my situation or to the Olympics. It's a fundamental part of the human experience, perhaps more evident now than ever before. We're constantly balancing these opposing forces, finding ways to celebrate life's joys while acknowledging its sorrows.

Amidst this emotional complexity, an unexpected beacon of joy emerged at these Olympics: none other than the legendary Snoop Dogg. His presence as a commentator brought an infectious enthusiasm and lighthearted spirit that perfectly embodied the balance of joy and gravitas the Games represent.

Snoop's unique blend of wit, charm, and genuine excitement for the athletes' achievements has become one of the most talked-about aspects of the 2024 Olympics. His colorful commentary, peppered with his signature laid-back style and clever wordplay, not only entertained millions but also made the Games more accessible to a broader audience.

What's truly remarkable is how Snoop has managed to strike a chord with people from all walks of life. His ability to find joy and humor in every moment, while still respecting the athletes' hard work and dedication, serves as a powerful reminder of how we can approach our own lives. Even in the face of challenges, there's always room for laughter, for celebration, and for coming together in shared excitement.

As we navigate this complex emotional landscape, here are some strategies to help us live with grief while nurturing hope and joy:

1. Acknowledge and Express: Allow yourself to fully experience your emotions. Create a grief journal where you can pour out your feelings, but also use it to jot down moments of unexpected joy or hope you encounter each day.

2. Find Purpose in Action: Engage in activities that give you a sense of purpose. Volunteer for a cause you care about or set personal goals.

3. Practice Mindful Gratitude: Each day, take a few minutes to be present and acknowledge something you're thankful for, even amidst grief.

4. Embrace Physical and Mental Wellness: Maintain a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and get adequate sleep. Consider incorporating mindfulness practices like meditation or yoga.

5. Celebrate Small Victories: Acknowledge and celebrate small steps forward. Did you get out of bed on a tough day? That's a win. Did you reach out to a friend? Another victory.

6. Embrace Laughter: Take a cue from Snoop Dogg and find ways to infuse humor and lightness into your day. Laughter can be a powerful tool for resilience.

Snoop's involvement in the Olympics teaches us an important lesson about hope and resilience. His journey from a challenging background to becoming a global icon and now an Olympic commentator is a testament to the power of perseverance and staying true to oneself. His presence at the Games reminds us that joy can be found in unexpected places, and that sometimes, the best way to navigate difficult times is with a smile and a sense of humor.

As we move forward, let's take a page from Snoop's book. Let's find ways to infuse our days with moments of levity and joy, even as we acknowledge our struggles. Let's celebrate the diversity of human expression and find common ground in our shared experiences of both triumph and challenge.

In a world that often feels divided, the Olympics remind us of our shared humanity. They show us that it's possible to come together, to celebrate our differences while recognizing our common struggles and aspirations. They teach us that hope and grief can coexist, that joy can be found even in challenging times.

As we continue to grapple with our personal and collective grief, let's hold onto this Olympic spirit. Let's continue to strive for our personal bests, to support each other in times of triumph and defeat. Let's acknowledge our collective grief while nurturing the seeds of hope and joy. And let's remember that like the Olympic flame, the human spirit has an incredible capacity to illuminate even the darkest of times.

🎵 What I'm listening to: Snoop Dogg's "Drop It Like It's Hot" on repeat. In this summer heat, it feels like the perfect theme song. Its laid-back vibe and catchy beat remind me to stay cool (literally and figuratively) even when life turns up the temperature.

📚 What I'm reading: "How Do You Feel?" by Jessi Gold. I was fortunate to receive an advance copy of this poignant memoir, which publishes on October 8^th (use the link above to order your copy 30% off)! Dr. Gold's exploration of the mental and physical costs of caring for others resonates deeply with me. Through her personal journey and the stories of her patients, she illuminates the critical importance of self-care in the helping professions. It's a powerful reminder that to care for others effectively, we must first care for ourselves.

🗳️ Who I'm voting for (at SXSW): "The New Work Order: Workplace Redesign for Employee Thriving" panel. Voting is open until August 18, and I'm excited about the potential to bring this crucial conversation about workplace wellbeing to SXSW. With experts like Jan-Emmanuel De Neve, Kacy Fleming, Pooja Lakshmin and yours truly, this panel promises to offer real solutions for creating sustainable work environments that benefit both employees and businesses. Your vote can help make this happen!

🌟 What I'm excited about: The World Happiness Summit in March 2025. Even though it's still a ways off, I'm already looking forward to this gathering focused on "Hope and Community for a Happier Life." And, we all know that HOPE is my jam! It's a chance to dive deep into the science of wellbeing and learn practical strategies for cultivating hope and happiness. Use code Jenfish for an additional 10% off ticket prices if you're planning to attend.