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  • Essay / The Berafian model: a process for dealing with grief

    It is the national bird of the United States of America. The bald eagle flies the highest of all birds. It can see its prey from a mile away. They have a mortality ratio of 60 to 1. Their nests are typically 5 feet by 5 feet and weigh about two tons. They have no predators other than humans. Their name comes from the traditional indigenous language; bald means white. Native American tradition teaches that the bald eagle is a messenger. He carries the prayers of our humanity to the Creator. It is believed that once a prayer has been said, a feather is released. This is why the eagle feather is so sacred. But when storms come, what do bald eagles do? Most people mistakenly believe that the bald eagle will go to its nest. Bald eagles take off and fly above the storm. They open their seven-foot wingspan and hover until the storm is over. What does this have to do with humans grappling with grief? Individuals will do everything they can to avoid dealing with their loss. They're trying to rise above it. I'll stay busy. I will work 50 to 60 hours per week. I'll drink three, four or more beers to numb it. In reality, nothing changes and mourning remains avoided and it will not