Doris Kearns Goodwin, a Pulitzer Prize-winning historian, shares her profound insights on grief, drawing parallels between her own experiences and those of historical figures like Abraham Lincoln. She delves into how Lincoln coped with the loss of his son Willie, showcasing his vulnerability and empathy during the Civil War. Doris also reflects on her journey of sifting through her late husband's belongings, revealing cherished memories and the transformative power of storytelling. Her discussion emphasizes the evolving nature of grief and the therapeutic role of remembrance.
Doris Kearns Goodwin emphasizes the importance of acknowledging grief as a collective experience to foster connection and healing among individuals.
Through her personal journey of grief, Goodwin highlights the transformative power of reminiscing and exploring shared memories with loved ones.
Deep dives
The Benefits of the Sleep Number Smart Bed
The Sleep Number Smart Bed is designed to cater to the individual preferences of both partners, allowing them to adjust firmness and temperature on their respective sides of the bed. This customization fosters a better sleep experience, particularly for couples who often have differing preferences. The bed's innovative features not only enhance sleep quality but also highlight the importance of personalized comfort in shared spaces. As a result, it helps couples maintain harmony in their sleep environments.
Historical Insights on Grief
Historian Doris Kearns Goodwin reflects on the evolution of grief in American society, noting that public expressions of sorrow were once commonplace. People used to mourn together as a community, sharing the pain of loss and supporting one another through shared experiences. This contrasts sharply with modern practices, where grief is often kept private and hidden away, leading to feelings of isolation. Goodwin emphasizes that acknowledging and discussing grief is vital to healing, as it bridges connections between those who are mourning.
Personal Encounters with Loss
Doris Kearns Goodwin shares her personal journey of grief following the death of her husband, Dick Goodwin. Their decision to explore his collections of memorabilia together became a transformative process that brought a renewed appreciation for their shared memories. This collaboration allowed them both to confront and understand their life stories together, making each moment significant. The experience was not only a journey through grief but also an exploration of love that deepened their connection.
The Ongoing Nature of Grief
The podcast discusses how grief does not have a set timeline and can manifest in varying ways for individuals. Many who have lost loved ones experience waves of grief that can come unexpectedly, often complicating their ability to move forward. The conversation highlights the societal pressure to 'get over' grief within a specific timeframe, which can lead to unmet emotional needs. It is stressed that allowing oneself to feel pain and recognizing it as a natural part of the healing process can ultimately help build resilience.
Pulitzer Prize winning historian Doris Kearns Goodwin knows what it’s like to face the past. She talks with Anderson about how Abraham Lincoln and other historic figures dealt with grief, and how she has. She went through boxes of papers and mementos with her husband Dick Goodwin before he died and it changed both of their lives in ways she never expected.