After an opening period of silence, the leader can share the following focus and structure for the meeting.
The focus of this meeting is to review, summarize, and say goodbye. Before discussion begins, any group member who has not had a chance to share storytelling from previous meetings will have the opportunity to do so.
Storytelling: Round 1
• What, if anything, has surprised you about your grief story?
• How have your grief and mourning changed in the time since your loss? What do you wish would change? What do you hope will not change?
• Do you currently have one or more persons in your life with whom you can continue to share your loss story? If not, where might you find such a person?
• What books, poems, songs, movies, websites, or support groups have been meaningful to you in your grief? Why?
• Has your loss inspired you to do volunteer work? If so, what has that been, and how has the experience been meaningful?
Storytelling: Round 2
• How would you describe your overall experience with this group?
• Was there anything you needed that you did not receive?
• Were any specific aspects of the group, or parts of your story, particularly challenging or difficult to share?
• What did you find most helpful? Why?
• Did you find any specific discussions helpful?
Moving Forward
In a concluding discussion, members can decide if they wish to continue to meet and, if so, on what schedule. Some may feel like the six-week experience has been sufficient and may not need future contact. Their decision should be supported.
In one last round of sharing, members are encouraged to say their goodbyes to one another. Any final appreciation or gratitude for the other group members or the experience of participating in this sacred group of mourners may be shared.
End the meeting with a closing silence.