The anniversary of a loved one’s death can feel like a wave of sorrow, memories, and longing—often stronger than expected. Whether it’s been a few months or many years, this day can bring deep feelings to the surface.
You might feel disoriented, emotional, or even numb. And that’s okay. This day is about remembering someone who mattered deeply to you. It’s a day to reflect, honor, and, when possible, receive comfort.
We’ve gathered meaningful reflections, Scripture, and quotes from others who’ve faced this same kind of day. May these words offer you reassurance and hope.
These words can be read quietly, shared with family, written in a journal, or recorded on your phone:
“Grief is the price you pay for loving someone, because if there were no love, there’d be no grief.”
Zig Ziglar, quoted in Grieving with Hope
“Each one of those moments [throughout the day of the anniversary] has its own importance and its own journey of grief. It’s important to embrace it and to work through it, not to short-circuit that time.”
Robert Rogers
“The relief has come as I’ve gone through the hurdles of the firsts—the first holidays and anniversary … step by step by step.”
Cindy Bultema
“She may no longer be here on earth but she still is a part of my life.”
Debi
“Deep within the human spirit is the need to honor and remember the people we love. It is almost an unheard cry of the soul to pledge never to forget the person and his or her part in our lives.”
Reflections: A Guided Journal by GriefShare
“You’re going to do grief in a way that fits and suits you.”
Dr. Brad Hambrick, quoted in “Is My Grief Normal?”: 51 Questions People Are Asking About Loss
“Grieving isn’t about letting go of the person you loved. It’s about finding a new way to hold on—while moving forward with your life.”
Reflections: A Guided Journal by GriefShare
When your heart is aching, God’s Word becomes more than words—it becomes a lifeline. These verses speak directly to the experience of loss and the hope God offers:
These promises don’t erase your pain, but they anchor your heart in the truth that you are not forsaken. You are loved. And God is with you.
On days like this, it’s easy to feel pressure to “put on a brave face.” But grief anniversaries often reopen the wound, reminding you how much has changed.
That’s why the Bible includes lament—honest cries of pain to God. You don’t have to pretend everything’s okay. God invites your honesty.
Biblical lament gives you a way to express sorrow while still clinging to God. It’s the language of deep grief mixed with faith, helping you speak honestly about your pain—just like the psalmists did. You can pray your own laments or turn to psalms like Psalm 13, Psalm 42, or Psalm 77, where people cried out in their anguish and still found ways to remember God’s faithfulness.
Lament doesn’t rush your grief. It gives voice to it—and draws you closer to the One who hears every cry.
Be gentle with yourself. Light a candle. Journal a memory. Cry if you need to. Laugh if you can. Invite God into your grief. And know this: You are not alone. God sees every tear. And He promises a day when those tears will be no more.
For further help in preparing for the anniversary of your loved one’s death, read What to Expect on the Anniversary of Your Loved One’s Death—and How to Cope.
For suggestions of special ways to honor your loved one’s memory today, see 11 Meaningful Ways to Remember Someone on Their Death Anniversary.
Even when family and friends mean well, it can feel like no one truly gets what you’re going through. As Cindy Bultema says, “Being able to talk about the pain … to lean hard on God, His Word, and my friends … I would be so much further back on the journey if I had just stuffed it.”
That’s why so many people turn to GriefShare. These people made the decision to attend a GriefShare group for help in their grief. You might consider whether this is a valuable step for you to take as well. Here’s what others said after going to GriefShare.
“I was seen. I was heard. I didn’t have to explain everything. People just knew.” Barbara
“GriefShare helped me leave my dark place.” Frank
“I realized I wasn’t crazy. What I was feeling was normal.” Erma
“I was able to be open and honest about my pain. The people in my group never judged me—they simply listened and cared.” Donna
“GriefShare helped me learn how to process my loss.” Jake
GriefShare groups bring together people who’ve experienced a loved one’s death. Together, you’ll explore biblical truths about grief, share stories, and support one another in a safe, structured setting. These 13-week groups are available in person and online.
As you continue walking through your own journey of grief, you may find that the comfort you’ve received can, in time, become a gift you share with others. Reaching out to someone who is hurting doesn’t just encourage them—it can also be part of your own healing. Many who’ve been helped through GriefShare later discover a quiet strength and a sense of purpose as they come alongside others in their pain. If you’re wondering whether you’re ready to share in this way, you’ll find helpful resources and guidance at griefshare.org/comfort.