Carrying Them With You

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Welcome to The Brighter Side of Everything.

This newsletter serves a simple purpose → To help you build optimism, resilience and a solution-focused perspective.

Each week, I’ll share actionable insights that not only brighten your day but position you to be a leader within your own life and seize life’s opportunities.

Read time: 12-15 minutes.

Bright Side in Brief

What’s covered this week?

• Carrying Them With You - A conversation on grief.

• Bright Reads - Quick links to fun or insightful articles.

• Greta Gerwig - Embracing authenticity and empowering voices.

• Worth a Follow - Somewhere Soul on Instagram.

• A Bright Idea to Consider - Knowledge vs Action - Leonardo da Vinci.

• A Previous Post - Self-awareness.

• Positively Hilarious - Smile like you mean it.

• Daily Gratitude Journal - Transform your daily routine through reflection.

Hello, Brighter Side readers! ☀️

A warm welcome to those who have just joined and a big thank you to the loyal readers who continue to read along.

Grief is one of the most profound experiences we face in life, yet it’s uniquely personal for each of us.

Having experienced the sudden loss of both parents within 5 years, I’ve come to understand just how complex and transformative this journey can be.

It’s not easy.

And it’s certainly not something you “get over.”

But through time and reflection, I’ve learned ways to carry them with me.

Ways that bring comfort and meaning even in their absence.

I remember the overwhelming waves of sadness that felt like they would never subside, the moments when memories seemed to ambush me and the struggle to find a new sense of normalcy.

Yet, it's in these moments that I've unveiled the resilience of the human spirit and the power of a love that endures beyond loss.

So read on, whether you're navigating loss or supporting someone who is, know you’re not alone in this journey.

I hope you find some comfort or insight in our conversation.

Because at the end of the day, we all share the human experience of love, loss and healing.

See you on the Brighter Side,

Chris

P.S. Please feel free to send me feedback on how I can improve. I respond to every email.

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Carrying Them With You

A Conversation on Grief

Grief is a universal experience, but somehow it feels deeply personal and unique to each of us.

Losing someone you love changes you in ways you never anticipated and while the pain can feel unbearable at first, over time, it transforms into something different.

A quieter presence that stays with you, shaping your life in ways both tender and profound.

It’s like a shadow that never leaves your side, a constant reminder of what once was and what continues to be.

It weaves itself into the fabric of your daily existence, influencing your thoughts, your actions and your emotions.

This transformation is not about forgetting or moving on, but rather integrating the loss into your life, allowing it to coexist with moments of joy and hope.

Grief teaches resilience and empathy, offering a deeper understanding of love and the impermanence of life.

Navigating the Stages of Grief

When my Dad passed away, now five years ago, I found myself frantically searching for answers, trying to understand the process of bereavement.

I came across the widely known five stages of grief - denial, anger, bargaining, depression and acceptance - in the hope they might offer some clarity.

But what I’ve learned since then, is that grief doesn’t follow a tidy framework.

It’s messy, it’s unpredictable and it’s deeply personal.

The idea of these stages can be comforting at first.

It suggests that there’s a roadmap to healing.

A sequence of emotions to work through before you reach acceptance.

But in reality, grief doesn’t unfold in tidy steps.

You don’t move from denial to anger to bargaining in a linear fashion.

Instead, these emotions overlap and intertwine, sometimes hitting you all at once or reappearing unexpectedly months or years later.

One memory, one word, one trigger can send you spiralling back into anger or sadness even after you thought you’d reached acceptance.

I’ve felt this first-hand.

Those moments when grief catches me off guard, like hearing a song that reminds me of Mum or one of many jokes from Dad that have stayed with me.

A reminder that grief isn’t something you “complete.”

It’s something you carry with you.

The Long Road

I read somewhere that the grieving process lasts about eighteen months, on average.

But even as time passes, I suspect there’s no magic moment when life reverts to “normal.”

Grief changes you, forever.

It becomes part of who you are, a quiet presence in the background of your life.

In those early days after losing someone, it’s easy to feel like you’ll never be okay again.

The pain is so raw and consuming that it feels impossible to move forward.

But what I’ve come to realise is that it’s okay not to be okay.

Grief isn’t something you need to hide or rush through.

It’s a natural response to losing someone you love deeply.

Navigating Emotional Ambushes

Grief has an unpredictable way of sneaking up on you when you least expect it.

A familiar scent might transport you back to a nice moment.

Even something as simple as walking down a supermarket aisle can bring tears to your eyes because it reminds you of moments or meals.

These triggers feel like emotional ambushes, sudden waves that knock the wind out of you just when you thought you were coping.

They remind us that grief isn’t stationary.

It ebbs and flows in surprising ways.

While these moments can be overwhelming, they’re also reminders of how deeply our loved ones are woven into our lives.

Over time, I’ve learned not to fear these triggers but to embrace them as opportunities to heal or to honour the memories of those we've lost.

Each trigger, though painful, highlights the enduring impact our loved ones have had on us.

By facing these moments with openness and acceptance, we allow ourselves to process our emotions and find new ways to allow their presence into our ongoing journey.

Embracing these triggers can transform them from sources of distress into catalysts for growth and understanding.

When they surface, I try to pause and reflect on the love behind those memories instead of focusing solely on the pain.

This reframing has helped me honour my parent’s presence in my life rather than feeling blindsided by their absence.

Finding Positivity Amid Grief

On tougher days, I try to focus on the positive.

The happy memories remind me of who Mum and Dad were.

Initially, these memories were hard to access because they were overshadowed by the pain of their loss.

But over time, they’ve come right back into focus.

For those who didn’t know them, they were incredibly kind and loving individuals who always put others before themselves.

While they separated early in my life, I feel blessed to have had them both remain key parts of it.

Each of them contributed uniquely to the person I am today.

Mum taught me the importance of empathy and compassion.

Always encouraging me to see the world through others' eyes and to understand their feelings and perspectives.

Lessons that have stayed with me, guiding my interactions and decisions to this day.

Dad, on the other hand, instilled a wicked sense of humour and a work ethic that has shaped my approach to life in countless ways.

His ability to find humour in everyday situations taught me to appreciate the lighter side of everything (see what I did there), even during challenging times.

His resilience and dedication showed me how to face challenges head-on, a lesson that continues to inspire and guide me through difficult times.

Together, their lessons have shaped my values and will continue to guide me through the ups and downs.

Even though they’re no longer here physically, their influence lives on in every decision I make and every value I pass on to my children.

The Things They Miss

One of the hardest parts of grief is realising all the things your loved ones will miss.

The milestones they won’t witness and the memories they won’t share with you.

For me, this often surfaces when my kids hit new milestones or achieve things I know would have made them both proud.

It hurts deeply to think about how much of my life they’ll miss, the holidays we’ll never take together, weddings they won’t attend and the countless moments we won't share.

There are regular moments where I think to myself “Mum would have loved this” or “Dad would have found this hilarious.”

Initially, these thoughts brought a bittersweet feeling.

Their absence leaves a space that can never be filled and the memories we might have made, remain as dreams.

Yet, despite this, they remain integral to my future, as the love that shaped my identity continues to guide me daily.

You’re Not Alone

Grief can make you feel isolated, even when you are surrounded by others.

It’s as though your closest link in this world has been severed and you’re left adrift without direction.

After losing my mum, I struggled with this feeling acutely.

Her absence felt like losing my anchor.

But what I’ve learned is that you’re never truly alone.

There are always people who understand what you’re going through, friends who listen without judgment or strangers who offer unexpected kindness during tough moments.

In saying this, I am so grateful for the incredible network of family and friends in my life.

During what has without doubt been the most turbulent and traumatic period of my life, they were there without question.

And for that, I’ll be forever grateful and indebted to each of them.

You all know who you are 🥰 

And even though your loved ones aren’t here physically anymore, they too remain with you in spirit.

Within your memories and in all the ways they shaped your life.

If you’re grieving today, whether your loss is recent or years behind you.

You are never alone in this journey, even if it feels that way at times.

It’s okay not to be okay.

It’s okay if the pain feels overwhelming at times or if acceptance feels impossibly far away.

But also know, that love endures beyond loss.

It transcends time and space and keeps you connected forever.

Grief may change over time, it may soften or shift, but love remains constant.

And that love is what carries us forward as we continue to honour those we’ve lost by living fully.

You will smile again.

Not because the pain disappears but because their memory brings warmth instead of sorrow.

Hold onto that hope, it will guide you through even the darkest days ahead.

A Final Reflection

As we journey along the path of grief, it’s essential to recognise that our sorrow is a testament to the love we shared.

Reflecting on my journey, I find myself thinking: how lucky am I to have loved someone so deeply that losing them hurts this bad?

Very lucky.

Grief is just love with no place to go.

A reflection of all the unspent affection we wish we could still give them but now carry within us instead.

This profound connection between love and grief reminds us that our pain is rooted in relationships worth cherishing forever.

So when those moments come - the triggers that catch us off guard or milestones that remind us what we’ve lost - let them also remind us how fortunate we are for having experienced such deep love in our lives.

So if you see me sitting alone laughing to myself, know that I’m not crazy …

… I just miss my Mum & Dad.

That’s all ♥️ 

Bright Reads

Interesting insights to ignite your inner optimist.

• How marathons change runners’ brains: scans show surprise energy source.

• Paris residents vote in favour of making 500 more streets pedestrian.

• Check out this Northern Lights live camera.

• Here's how a false memory could be planted in your brain.

• Visualizing the history of Saturn and its rings.

Greta Gerwig

Embracing Authenticity and Empowering Voices

Greta Gerwig is synonymous with creativity, resilience and trailblazing success in cinema.

From her roots in Sacramento, California, to becoming one of the most celebrated filmmakers of her generation, Gerwig’s journey is extraordinary.

With a unique voice and dedication to storytelling, she has broken barriers in a male-dominated industry while inspiring countless individuals to pursue their passions unapologetically.

From Sacramento to Stardom

Born on August 4, 1983, Greta Celeste Gerwig grew up in Sacramento, where she first nurtured her love for performance through dance and theatre.

Though she initially dreamed of becoming a playwright, life had other plans.

After facing rejections from graduate screenwriting programs, a blow that might have derailed others, Gerwig pivoted toward acting and independent filmmaking.

Instead of dwelling on closed doors, Gerwig leaned into new opportunities with optimism and grit, two of my favourite qualities.

Collaborating with filmmakers in the mumblecore movement, a genre known for its raw, low-budget storytelling.

She quickly became known for her authenticity on-screen.

Reflecting on this period, she once said: “I didn’t know exactly what I was doing, but I knew I wanted to create something deeply personal.”

Her early work in films like Hannah Takes the Stairs’ and ‘Nights and Weekends’ showcased her talent for raw storytelling.

But it was her collaboration with Noah Baumbach on Frances Ha (2012), where she co-wrote and starred as the title character, that earned her widespread acclaim and a Golden Globe nomination.

This pivotal moment transformed her career, paving the way for her evolution from actress to auteur.

Breaking Barriers Behind the Camera

Gerwig made history with her solo directorial debut, Lady Bird (2017), a semi-autobiographical coming-of-age story set in Sacramento.

The film resonated deeply with audiences for its universal themes—particularly its raw portrayal of mother-daughter relationships.

One memorable scene shows Lady Bird jumping out of a moving car during an argument with her mother, an exaggerated but painfully relatable moment that captures teenage rebellion and familial tension.

The film earned five Academy Award nominations, including Best Director and Best Picture, making Gerwig only the fifth woman ever nominated for Best Director at the Oscars.

Her follow-up film, Little Women (2019), reimagined Louisa May Alcott’s novel with a fresh perspective.

By using a non-linear structure, Gerwig brought depth to familiar characters while exploring timeless themes like ambition, love and independence.

The film earned six Academy Award nominations and solidified Gerwig’s reputation as a visionary filmmaker.

And then came Barbie (2023).

A cultural phenomenon that grossed over $1 billion worldwide, making Gerwig the first solo female filmmaker to achieve this feat.

With its witty script and bold visuals, Barbie sparked conversations about gender roles, identity and empowerment while proving that even lighthearted stories can carry profound messages.

Lessons from Greta

Gerwig’s career offers invaluable lessons for anyone striving to make their mark:

• Embrace Rejection as Redirection:

  After being rejected from screenwriting programs, Gerwig adapted by pivoting toward acting and independent filmmaking—a reminder that setbacks can lead to unexpected opportunities.

• Take Up Space:

  “No one will ever say ‘it’s time’—you have to take up space,” Gerwig advises women pursuing their dreams.

• Collaborate Wisely: Surround yourself with supportive collaborators who share your vision—like Saoirse Ronan and Timothée Chalamet have been central to hers.

• Write Without Judgment: “Don’t judge your drafts right away,” she says—a reminder that every masterpiece begins as a messy first attempt.

• Stay True to Your Vision: Whether reimagining Little Women or creating a feminist take on Barbie, Gerwig’s work reflects bold storytelling rooted in authenticity.

A Champion for Representation

Gerwig’s impact extends well beyond her own films.

She has been a vocal advocate for gender equality in Hollywood, supporting initiatives like the 50/50 by 2020 campaign, which aims to achieve gender parity in leadership roles within the film industry.

Her achievements are particularly significant when viewed against Hollywood's historical gender disparity, where only 14% of directors behind top-grossing films are women.

By breaking records and earning critical acclaim in such an environment, Gerwig has proven that representation matters.

Not just on-screen but behind the camera as well.

Her films often centre on nuanced female characters navigating identity, ambition and relationships.

Stories that resonate deeply while challenging traditional narratives.

By amplifying diverse voices both on-screen and behind the camera, Gerwig is reshaping what representation looks like in cinema.

Practical Takeaways

Gerwig’s journey offers practical insights anyone can apply:

• Turn obstacles into opportunities - like Greta pivoting after rejection.

• Find your voice by focusing on what makes your perspective unique.

• Collaborate wisely by surrounding yourself with people who elevate your work.

• Be persistent, success rarely happens overnight.

• Champion others, and use your platform to lift those around you.

My Takeaway

Greta Gerwig has redefined what it means to be a storyteller in Hollywood.

Proving that authenticity, resilience and vision can break through even the toughest barriers.

Her films remind us of the power of human connection and the importance of telling stories that matter.

Whether you’re an aspiring filmmaker or simply someone navigating life’s challenges, Greta’s journey is proof that determination and creativity can lead to extraordinary outcomes.

So take a page from Greta’s book.

Write your story, boldly.

Embrace your unique voice.

And … never stop pushing boundaries.

Who knows?

You might just inspire others along the way, just like Greta has inspired us all.

If you have 8 minutes to spare, this video outlines the passion and dedication of Gerwig:

Worth a Follow

Somewhere Soul

Instagram & Threads

I’ve always been passionate about music and discovering new artists/albums is a big part of that.

There’s something magical about diving deeper than simply what’s “popular” and uncovering an endless world of incredible sounds.

Last year, I came across the Instagram account Somewhere Soul (@somewhere_soul) and it immediately struck a chord with me.

The tagline on his page reads:

“Music recommendations that put artistry before algorithms. Digging for the best new music from around the world so that you don’t have to.”

Sign me up.

This perfectly sums up what makes this account special.

Since then, the weekly breakdowns and recommendations have introduced me to countless great artists and albums.

If you love music as much as I do - or just want to expand your horizons - this account is definitely worth a follow.

Why Somewhere Soul?

Artistry Over Algorithms

Somewhere Soul is committed to putting artistry first.

At a time when algorithms dictate much of what we hear, his account takes a refreshing approach by digging deep to find the best new music from around the world.

So you don’t have to.

Whether it’s jazz, funk, soul, or psychedelic rock, the recommendations always feel personal and intentional.

A Curator You Can Trust

The man behind Somewhere Soul, Josh Mason-Quinn, has a background as an artist manager, record label A&R, DJ, and digital marketer.

He started the account six years ago as a way to share his love for music with friends, and it’s grown into a thriving platform with over 900K followers.

His signature “head nod” videos - where he grooves to tracks from all over the world - are remarkably simple yet captivating, making every recommendation feel authentic.

Josh has even noted that his head nod, while sometimes mocked, is a deliberate choice to engage viewers and amplify the music he believes in.

Expanding Your Musical Horizons

If you’re like me, you believe there’s too much great music out there to only listen to what’s popular, Somewhere Soul is perfect for helping you dig deeper.

The account introduces you to artists and genres you might never have explored otherwise.

From Brazilian disco (which I’ve been jamming to today) to modern jazz fusion, each post feels like an invitation to discover something new.

Somewhere Soul's uniqueness lies in its ability to connect listeners with music on a personal level.

It's not about following trends or promoting mainstream hits.

It's about sharing genuine discoveries and growing a deeper appreciation for music that often goes unnoticed.

The curated playlists and recommendations feel like they're coming from a trusted friend.

Josh's approach is all about authenticity and engagement, using formats that work for social media platforms without sacrificing his artistic vision.

Playlists That Hit Every Mood

Beyond Instagram posts, Somewhere Soul curates playlists that are perfect for any vibe or occasion.

Whether it’s an all-night DJ set or a collection of hidden gems from across the globe, these playlists are thoughtfully crafted and endlessly enjoyable.

You can find these playlists here on both Spotify and Apple Music.

Building Community Through Music

One of my favourite things about this account is Josh’s ability to spark conversations among followers.

Music recommendations often come with context or stories that make them even more engaging.

The comment sections are full of people sharing their thoughts on songs and connecting over shared tastes.

It’s like being part of a global music club.

My Takeaway

Somewhere Soul isn’t just an Instagram account.

It’s a gateway to discovering music that would otherwise fly under your radar.

It’s perfect for anyone who loves digging deeper into the world of sound or simply wants fresh tunes for their playlist.

Josh’s passion for music shines through in every post, making it clear that this isn’t about trends.

It’s about timeless artistry.

If you’re ready to explore new genres, discover hidden gems and join a community of fellow music lovers, give Somewhere Soul a follow.

Trust me - you’ll find yourself grooving (and nodding) along in no time!

Got a recommendation?

Please share; I'm always keen for great suggestions.

A Bright Idea to Consider

Leonardo da Vinci

The Lesson

Leonardo da Vinci’s wisdom is timeless and it perfectly captures a truth that many of us struggle with.

Knowledge and intention alone won’t change your life.

Action will.

Our world is overflowing with information, so it’s easy to fall into the trap of passively consuming knowledge without ever applying it.

But here’s the hard truth: without action, knowledge sits idle and willingness becomes nothing more than good intention.

This quote reminds us that transformation happens when we move from knowing and wanting to doing.

Let’s break it down:

Breaking Free From the Knowledge Trap

In 2025, we’re drowning in information.

Books, podcasts, courses, newsletters - you name it.

While this abundance is a gift, it also creates a trap.

The illusion of progress.

You read a self-help book or watch an inspiring TED Talk and feel motivated for a moment, but then what?

Without action, all that knowledge is just potential energy waiting to be unleashed.

Think of knowledge as a toolbox filled with high-quality tools.

If you never use them to fix or build anything, they’re useless.

The true value of learning lies in its application.

Taking action transforms knowledge into results, while passively consuming information leads to stagnation.

The Willingness Illusion: Why Good Intentions Aren’t Enough

Willingness feels good, because it signals openness to change.

But here’s the reality, willingness alone doesn’t lead to progress.

It’s like standing at the edge of a pool and wanting to swim but never jumping in.

The magic happens when you take the leap.

This requires radical honesty with yourself.

Are you stuck in “intention mode,” telling yourself you’ll act someday but never following through?

It’s not easy to confront excuses or fears head-on but doing so is necessary if you want to break free from unproductive patterns.

Overcoming Common Pitfalls

Taking action isn’t always easy, there are plenty of obstacles that can hold us back.

Here’s how to overcome some of the most common challenges:

1. Fear of Failure:
   Instead of asking “What if I fail?” try reframing your mindset: “What can I learn?” Failure isn’t the end - it’s an opportunity to refine your approach and try again.

2. Perfectionism:
   Waiting for everything to be perfect often leads to procrastination. Progress isn’t about perfection, it’s about momentum. Accept imperfection as part of the journey.

3. Overwhelm:
   Large goals can feel intimidating if tackled all at once. Break them into small, manageable steps - for example, start with five minutes of stretching instead of committing to an hour-long practice.

4. Lack of Accountability:
   Share your goals with someone who will hold you accountable. A friend, mentor, or even an online community can help keep you on track.

Real Talk: What Happens When You Don’t Act?

Let’s flip this around for a second.

What happens if you don’t take action?

The answer is simple: nothing changes.

You stay exactly where you are, stuck in unfulfilled potential and unrealised dreams.

But here’s the empowering part.

The gap between where you are and where you want to be isn’t as wide as it seems, it’s just one decision away.

The decision to act.

The Ripple Effect

When you take action, it doesn’t just impact your life, it impacts those around you too.

Your courage inspires others to step out of their comfort zones.

Your progress creates opportunities for connection and collaboration.

Your success becomes proof that change is possible.

Action isn’t just self-serving, it’s also a way of contributing positively to those around you.

My Takeaway

Leonardo da Vinci was right.

Knowing and wanting aren’t enough.

They’re merely stepping stones on the path to transformation.

The magic happens when you take deliberate action, no matter how small or imperfect it may seem.

Take a moment to reflect: What’s one area in your life where you’ve been stuck in “learning mode”?

What’s one small step can you take today, right now, to turn that knowledge into action?

Remember, progress isn’t about perfection.

It’s about momentum.

A previous post …

Positively Hilarious

A quick laugh as we part ways this week.

Daily Gratitude Journal

🚨Update 🚨 

In 2024, we sold 113 daily gratitude journals!

As a result, we're donating $113 to the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

Thank you for your support.

I’m so grateful for every journal sold and will continue to donate $1 to the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

Transform your daily routine with my specially crafted gratitude journal.

Start (or end) each day with a moment of reflection and positivity.

As you develop daily your gratitude, you're also helping grant wishes to children facing critical illnesses.

It's a powerful cycle of hope and optimism.

🌟 What's Inside:

• Thoughtful prompts to inspire daily gratitude.

• Space for personal reflections and affirmations.

• Beautifully designed pages to make each entry a delightful experience.

Ready to embrace the power of gratitude?

Click here to order a copy now!

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