Grief is never a straight line. And when you’ve lost a partner—the person who knew your routines, finished your sentences, shared your responsibilities, and loved you through all the seasons of life—grief can feel like losing part of yourself.
In Episode 22 of the Dialogues About Death Show, we had the honor of speaking with grief coach Diana Camba, who brings decades of experience in the funeral profession and now helps others navigate the rocky path of grief—especially those who’ve lost a spouse or long-time partner.
The Fog of the First Few Months
Diana reminded us that the first 2–4 months after a loss often feel like a fog. You’re going through the motions, maybe even setting an extra place at the table or expecting your partner to walk in at any moment. The pain is raw. The silence is deafening. And even the most routine parts of life feel foreign.
Chris Miller, our host, knows this firsthand. After the passing of his wife, he found himself grappling with both personal and professional grief—having worked alongside her in their family funeral business. He shared the challenge of coming home to an empty house and the silence that once was filled with shared decisions, laughter, and love.
Rebuilding Identity After Loss
One of the most powerful insights Diana shared was how grief invites us to rediscover who we are. For many, especially after a long marriage or partnership, it’s easy to feel like your identity was wrapped up in being part of a duo. Now, you’re being asked to make decisions, do chores, and face holidays—all on your own.
But here’s the hope: this painful process also holds the possibility of rediscovery. What hobbies did you once love but haven’t done in years? What traditions can you continue to honor your partner’s memory? Rediscovery doesn’t mean letting go of the person you loved—it means weaving their love into your new reality.
Guilt Is Normal—But You Don’t Have to Stay Stuck In It
Many widows and widowers feel a deep sense of guilt as they begin to move forward. Diana gently reminded us: moving forward is not moving on. It’s carrying your partner with you—in your heart, in your traditions, and even in the way you fold laundry or set the table.
Chris shared that continuing his wife’s tradition of volunteering at the church pantry keeps her spirit alive in his life. That’s not forgetting—it’s honoring.
How to Support Someone Who’s Grieving
Diana’s advice here is simple, yet profound:
- Don’t rush them.
- Be a listening ear.
- Say their loved one’s name.
- Invite them to things, but respect their space.
And most importantly? Let them grieve in their own way. No two grief journeys are the same.
It’s Okay to Celebrate Again
Whether it’s a birthday, holiday, or special family tradition, it’s okay to laugh again. To feel joy. To be thankful for what you had, and for the people who continue to show up for you now.
One beautiful suggestion from Diana was setting a special place at the table for your late spouse during holidays—with a photo or a candle—to include them in the celebration. It’s a way to bring your love story forward while still embracing life.
You Don’t Have to Do This Alone
Whether your loss was sudden or followed a long illness, grief is a heavy load to carry. But you don’t have to carry it by yourself.
If you’re looking for support, Diana Camba offers both one-on-one coaching and group sessions. She’s based in the Inland Empire area of California and can be reached at kambacoaching.com or by phone at 951-584-0455.
As we wrapped up this heartfelt episode, we were reminded that spring isn’t just about bunnies and blooms—it’s about new beginnings. And sometimes, after deep grief, the most courageous act is allowing yourself to begin again.
Catch the full episode here: Watch on YouTube
And don’t forget to join us for our next show on May 23rd, where we’ll explore how to care for aging loved ones in the comfort of their own homes with Ken Cook from Synergy HomeCare.
If this post resonated with you, please share it with someone who might need a little comfort today. And remember—grief is love with no place to go. Let’s honor it together. 