Coming Home: Speaking at the University of Illinois on the Power of Positive Thinking in Grief Recovery

By Bill Holley | September 8, 2025

Last week, I had the immense honor of returning to my alma mater, the University of Illinois, to speak to students, faculty, and community members about a topic deeply personal to me: the power of positive thinking in recovering from grief.

Walking through the familiar halls of the Illini Union brought back a flood of memories—late nights studying, long talks with professors who challenged me to think bigger, and friendships that have lasted a lifetime. But this visit wasn’t just a trip down memory lane. It was a chance to give back, to share a message that has shaped my life in unexpected and profound ways.

Grief as a Catalyst for Growth

Like many of us, I’ve faced personal loss—moments that cracked the foundation beneath my feet and made me question how to move forward. But over time, I discovered something powerful: grief and gratitude can coexist. In fact, they must.

During my talk, I shared stories from my own journey—raw, honest, and sometimes messy—about how I learned to let light back in after loss. Not by denying pain, but by choosing to believe that joy is still possible, even in the aftermath of heartbreak.

The Science (and Soul) of Positivity

I also touched on the research behind positive thinking—not as some fluffy buzzword, but as a genuine tool for resilience. Studies show that optimism can help rewire the brain, improve physical health, and create a sense of purpose even during life’s hardest seasons.

But it’s not just about brain chemistry—it’s about intentional living. I spoke about daily practices like gratitude journaling, mindful breathing, and building meaningful connections—all of which helped me find solid ground again.

A Room Full of Hope

What struck me most was the energy in the room. Students asked thoughtful questions. Some shared their own stories of loss and healing. One young woman approached me afterward and said, “I didn’t know it was okay to feel sad and hopeful at the same time.” That moment alone made the entire trip worth it.

Full Circle

Coming back to Illinois felt like closing a loop—bringing lessons hard-won through life back to the very place that helped shape who I am. It reminded me that healing isn’t a straight line. It’s a spiral, and sometimes we need to return to our roots to truly see how far we’ve come.

To the University of Illinois: thank you for welcoming me home with open arms. And to anyone walking through grief—hold on. There is still beauty ahead, and you are not alone.

With gratitude,
Bill