The 8 Interlocks

of Grief & Joy
Established by

Thea Monyeé &
Akilah S. Richards

bringingflowers.org

Overview of the Forces that bind Grief & Joy

Understanding
the Interlocks

Grief and joy are intertwined forces that shape the way we live, work, and relate to one another. The Grief & Joy Interlocks help us understand how these forces move together, teaching us how to:
  • honor loss without losing ourselves,
  • Harness the opportunities available to us throughout the grieving process
  • use joy as a trustworthy metric without denying the presence of our and other people’s grief.
  • Make joy a standard for decision making and ensuring we are not simply living, but we are ALIVE.
  • use joy as a trustworthy metric without denying the presence of our and other people’s grief.
Each of the eight is an entry point, a place where grief and joy meet—sometimes seemingly clashing, sometimes weaving, always informing. They are available to guide us toward more embodied, sustainable ways of moving through change.

How We Use
the Interlocks

These interlocks are not abstract concepts—they are tools for transformation. Whether in organizations, communities, or personal reflection, we use these interlocks to:
  • Guide workplaces through change with integrity and emotional intelligence.
  • Help leaders create environments that acknowledge and honor both grief and joy.
  • Support folks in navigating transitions without bypassing or suppressing emotions.
In addition to our standard Joy & Grief Interlocks, we  have customized Interlock Strategies for:
  • Workplaces (Corporate and Small Business)
  • Parenting
  • Romantic Relationships
  • Educational Institutions
The Joy & Grief Interlocks are a framework, but they are also an invitation: to move differently, to lead with intention, and to create spaces where loss and possibility can coexist.