In this special episode of Embracing Life Again, Catherine Kaufer invites her daughter, Janelle Kaufer, a passionate high school Spanish teacher, to share a raw and intimate conversation about the journey of losing a loved one and how life continues after such a profound loss. Together, they reflect on the nine years since the passing of Janelle’s father, exploring the emotional and spiritual impact it has had on their lives.
Janelle vividly recalls the day her father passed—Cinco de Mayo—a day she will never forget. As they recount those painful moments, from Catherine delivering the heartbreaking news to Janelle’s feeling of numbness, they explore how grief reshaped their identities. For Janelle, her father was the “glue” of their family, and after his passing, she grappled with the question: “Who am I without him?” Catherine, having been with her husband since they were 15 years old, shares how she had to rebuild her identity from the ground up, relying heavily on prayer and faith to guide her through the darkest times.
The episode also touches on the emotional journey of moving forward. Catherine recounts having visions of her late husband and the comfort they brought her, reminding her that he was still with her in spirit. Both mother and daughter share how certain activities, like bike riding, became painful reminders of the past, but they also found new ways to embrace life again.
A powerful moment comes when they discuss the pressures of societal expectations to “move on” from loss. Janelle reflects on what it truly means to find joy again, while Catherine speaks candidly about overcoming codependency and how unaddressed issues in one relationship can carry over into the next.
In an inspiring conclusion, Janelle recounts a special pilgrimage she made through Spain to honor her father—a 35-day walk that became a symbol of her journey toward healing. Theo, their therapy dog, also makes a special appearance in the episode, having entered their lives during their time of grief and offering comfort ever since.
Join Catherine and Janelle for a deeply touching discussion on grief, faith, and the slow but steady path toward finding joy and purpose after loss.
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