Facing Grief

Grief is a formidable force, capable of causing fear and panic. It can feel like staring into the abyss, where acknowledging its presence might plunge us into irreversible darkness. The thought of fully immersing ourselves in grief can be daunting, as if we risk losing ourselves entirely. But grief should not be feared. It is a natural part of the human experience. Grief, itself, does not bring us pain - it is our response to a painful loss.

And despite the terror it may invoke, grief serves a crucial purpose—one that transcends its intimidating nature. As emotion specialist Karla McLaren states, grief demands us to answer the important questions “what must be mourned” and “what must be honored.” Rather than being a monstrous entity, grief acts as a guide, directing our attention to what truly matters in life. It nudges us to pause, to reflect, and to realign our priorities. In our deepest grief, our minds literally reorganize, our souls reconnect with profound truths, and our hearts swell with the recognition of deep love.

If we welcome our grief, and listen to its wisdom, we will find our way to the other side. Contrary to our fears, acknowledging grief doesn't render us lifeless; instead, it offers an opportunity for profound growth and understanding. It's a teacher, gently reminding us of the essence of our existence and the importance of cherishing what we hold dear.

So, I invite you to embrace your grief—to lean into its discomfort and allow it to unravel its lessons. For within its depths lies the wisdom to navigate life's challenges and the resilience to emerge stronger, wiser, and more appreciative of the precious moments we're granted.