Grief Is / Grief Isn't

Grief is a journey of ups and downs, ebbs and flows, peaks and valleys.

It is a road with many twists and turns, and no end in sight.

It is a unique and deeply personal experience.

It is messy, unexpected, and sometimes shocking.

It is delicate and fragile, requiring the utmost care and grace.

It is uncomfortable, unsettling, overwhelming, and at times all-consuming.

Grief changes you as a person, in ways you never imagined.

It shifts your perspective, alters your path, and becomes a permanent part of your story, a constant companion in life.

Grief isn’t one-size-fits-all, it looks and feels different for everyone.

It doesn’t follow a linear path, a standard timeline, or a set of rules.

It isn’t something you can get over, forget, or move on from.

Grief isn’t something to be ashamed of or kept hidden.

It isn't a sign of weakness.

It isn’t simple, nor is it straightforward.

Though its presence changes over time, though it shifts in shape and volume, grief is here to stay. At times, it is quiet and solemn, and others, it is loud and consuming. It's not a punishment or a life sentence; it's a reflection of the love you shared and cherished.

Grief is a testament to how deeply you loved and how deeply you’ve lost. It stands as a constant reminder of their life, their legacy, an unbreakable thread woven into the fabric of your being, ensuring they are never forgotten.

Photo: Annie Spratt (@anniespratt) | Unsplash Photo Community