The Welsh have a word that doesn’t have a direct English translation, but is often described as a deep longing for a home that no longer exists or a feeling of nostalgia tinged with grief.
“Hiraeth” (pronounced… ‘here-ayeth’)
This is the bittersweet feeling of loss mixed intimately with warm happy memories of the past. Its essence is a universally shared experience, the Welsh simply gave that feeling its own word.
Losing someone dear to us, often evokes a profound sense of longing and yearning. It’s a journey marked by grief, as we grapple with the absence of those we loved deeply. In this journey, “hiraeth” can serve as a poetic reference point, giving us a word that encapsulates the intricate intertwining of memory, longing, and loss.
At its core, “hiraeth” embodies the ache for something or someone cherished but now out of reach.
Mourning the loss of a loved one
When we lose a loved one, we not only mourn their physical absence but also yearn for the familiarity of their presence—the warmth of their smile, the sound of their laughter, the comfort of their embrace. In this longing, we may find ourselves revisiting memories, seeking solace in moments shared, and grappling with the bittersweet realisation that those moments are now part of the past.
“Hiraeth” speaks to the longing for a sense of connection that may have been intimately tied to the person we’ve lost. They represented a home—a safe harbour in the storms of life, a source of unconditional love and acceptance. With their departure, we may feel adrift, searching for a place to anchor our hearts amidst the waves of grief.
Yet, amidst the ache of “hiraeth,” there is also beauty—a testament to the depth of our love and the richness of our shared experiences. Through the lens of “hiraeth,” we honour the memory of those we’ve lost, embracing the symphony of grief and gratitude for the time we had together.
Acknowledge our emotions
“Hiraeth” invites us to acknowledge the complexity of our emotions, to lean into the longing without fear, and to find solace in the cherished memories that continue to shape our lives. It reminds us that even in the midst of grief, love endures—a guiding light in the darkness, a beacon of hope on the journey home.
Avalon Funeral Plans is committed to supporting families during the tender and sometimes tumultuous grief journey. We have resources available throughout our site to help you and your family have meaningful conversations about funeral planning and how to meet death and dying with compassion and understanding.
