National Grief Awareness Week

Today marks the start of National Grief Awareness Week. This year it is perhaps more poignant than ever, as we collectively remember everyone who has died, or lived through the death of a loved one as the coronavirus pandemic progresses.

Death is a part of life. It is the one certainty. And yet, it is a subject often avoided, and often provoking a depth of discomfort. It is not easy to face mortality, our own or that of others. Griefing is a natural, normal process, and it is one that unfolds over a long period of time. We grieve for what we have lost, for the change in our life circumstances, for the things we did and did not do. It’s not linear, it’s not just a matter of time, it’s messy, twisty, emotional, and very, very necessary.

This year, who do you know who has had a loved one die? How can you connect with them, and be with the complex, often intense, reality of that? How can you open up a conversation that others may be avoiding?

Whatever it is you ask, the key thing is to really be open to hearing the answer. To being with the person, gentle and curious, and to let them know that you care. We can’t just make grief OK, but we can lessen it’s impact by being connected.

Sending out blessings to anyone affected by death and grief recently. You’re in my thoughts.