In a world where positivity seems to be paraded around like it's the only guy in town, let's talk about the aspect of life that everyone would rather just ignore.
Grief.
Even typing the word feels uncomfortable.
I'd much rather think about sunshine and rainbows 24/7, but that's just not how life works.
Grief is here and it's here to stay.
It comes when we lose something we so passionately loved. And unless we refuse to love, we will all eventually experience grief to some degree. (I know that sounds depressing. Honestly, it kind of is.)
It has come knocking at my door a few times in my life.
It has showed itself as I've lost loved ones, health, homes, dreams, and hopes for my children.
It has even somehow planted itself permanently in my life as I have had to navigate the process of rebuilding a life outside of Mormonism. (You can read about my experience with that on my Instagram account here.)
It can be rough.
And messy.
It is not linear and it doesn't behave the same way for every person
Beth Erlander (a Licensed Professional Counselor that specializes in grief) captures the essence of my experience with it beautifully in this post. It is well worth the read.
The bottom line is that grief is a reality.
And it is simply ok if you are not ok.
Period.
(Also, if you are in deep grief and feel like you could use support, please find support! We all need help and love from others. Google "grief support" or "grief counselors" in your area or online.)
I LOVE those who are helping us all do the good, hard work of honest, authentic living.
Thank you! You are my heroes.
(The concepts in this blog post do not replace the need for proper mental health care. If you are experiencing mental illness, please seek help through a licensed mental health professional.)
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