What It’s Like to Plan Your Mother’s Funeral
A few years ago, doctors told the writer her sick mother wouldn’t survive the night—they were wrong. She’s prepared for her funeral, but how can you prepare for what comes after?
Grief
Women Are Revolutionizing the Death Industry
The death-positive movement is being built around activism, science, entrepreneurship, art and feminism. Can it remove the stigma from mortality?
Didn’t She Almost Have It All?
A chance encounter with the late Whitney Houston and daughter, Bobbi Kristina, inspires the writer to reflect on the tragic diva's all-consuming hunger.
Beyoncé Helped Ease My Prince Grief
Surprise-dropping "Lemonade" two days after the death of the High Priest of Pop was an incredibly bold move. And, according to this writer, a welcome and necessary one.
Why Do We Police Each Other’s Grief?
When an outpouring of social-media support for the victims of the Paris terrorist attacks gives way to grief-shaming, are we losing sight of our humanity?
The Privilege of Dying—and Killing—While White
They say all lives matter. But the memorialization of the two murdered Virginia journalists underscores the role race plays in the way victims—and shooters—are treated by the media.
How Will I Survive August Without My Shrink?
Many mental-health professionals take up to a month-long vacation in late summer. Which fills clients—like this grief-stricken writer—with existential dread.
Did My Best Friend Really Know Me?
For 27 years, the writer had a dutiful relationship with her most devoted friend. Only later did she question who needed who more.
Is There a Guidebook for Losing Dad?
When the writer went home to care for her father during his final days, she realized there were no blueprints for saying good-bye to a parent.
We Need to Do Something About the Animals
When the writer’s wife’s mother passed away, the couple was left with a profound sadness—and a house full of dogs, cats, birds, lizards, and fish.