Ep 17. Overcoming the Worst Day of Your Life

Oprah's Lifeclass season 1 episode 17 titled "Overcoming the Worst Day of Your Life" is a deeply emotional and thought-provoking episode that aims to help viewers find strength and resilience during difficult times in their lives. Oprah Winfrey, along with grief expert David Kessler and author Elizabeth Lesser, provides guidance and wisdom to those struggling with the aftermath of devastating experiences.

The episode begins with Oprah sharing the story of her own worst day, the day her beloved grandmother passed away. Oprah's vulnerability and honesty in sharing her experience sets the stage for a powerful and moving conversation about grief and loss. David Kessler, who has spent over 30 years working with individuals dealing with grief and trauma, provides invaluable insights into the grieving process and how to move forward.

Throughout the episode, Oprah and her guests emphasize the importance of allowing oneself to feel the pain and sadness that comes with loss. They stress the need to avoid suppressing or avoiding those emotions, as they will only resurface at a later time. Elizabeth Lesser, author of "Broken Open: How Difficult Times Can Help Us Grow," shares her own struggles with loss and how allowing herself to feel the pain ultimately led her to a place of growth and healing.

The episode features several individuals sharing their own stories of heartbreaking loss, from the death of a child to a painful divorce. Through their stories, viewers are reminded that no matter how unique one's circumstances may be, the pain of loss is a universal experience. Oprah stresses the importance of finding a community of support and leaning on one another during difficult times.

In addition to discussing grief, Oprah and her guests also touch upon the concept of forgiveness. They emphasize the power of forgiveness in releasing oneself from the burden of anger and resentment. Elizabeth Lesser shares her own experience of forgiving her sister's murderer, and the profound impact it had on her healing process.

The episode culminates in a moving exercise where Oprah leads the audience in a guided meditation to help release any pain or resentment they may be holding onto. The exercise highlights the power of forgiveness and the importance of allowing oneself to move forward from the pain of loss.

Overall, "Overcoming the Worst Day of Your Life" is a deeply moving and insightful episode that offers valuable wisdom and guidance for those dealing with grief and loss. By sharing their own experiences and providing practical advice, Oprah, David Kessler, and Elizabeth Lesser remind viewers that there is hope and healing to be found even in the darkest of times.