FOR THE LOVE OF GRIEF

As the second year anniversary of my grandmothers passing quickly approaches I am filled with so much emotion. Not solely as a result of my own personal grief but my heart is heavy for all of those that have experienced or are experiencing the same pain I've endured. Losing a loved one is an indescribable pain, a gut wrenching pain, a never-ending pain, a pain that is virtually impossible to carry alone. A long time ago a friend of mine shared a gem with me "shared pain is pain lessened". Quite often we underestimate the power of being able to connect through vulnerability so in this space I'd like to open my heart to any and everyone who may be reading.

I remember what it felt like to fall apart, to have tears no one could wipe, to question God's role in my life, to have no one "get it", to not be able to turn to those I thought I'd be able to, and to find comfort in nothing and no one. To be filled so with anger that I forgot what it felt like to experience joy, to be so alone that I forgot what true human connection felt like, and to never want to invite anyone into my space in fear of what I'd release. Whether you a grieving someone that has transitioned or someone who is simply no longer in your life working to reframe your reality after loss is no easy feat. Here are some things that brought my peace during my journey with grief.

1. A person transitioning doesn't mean that they are a thing of the past, no longer to be experienced again. By continuing the legacy of my loved ones I feel more connected to them that I ever have. They exist within and through me, all ways + always.

2. It gets easier with time is a myth. Truth is, grief does not get easier with time. It comes in waves. Some days it's heavy and some days it's light, but both days it hurts. However, the weight of grief becomes easier to carry with time.

3. Grief is not to be fought, but embraced because grief only exists where love lived first.

Accepting that your life will never be the same after grief is a harsh reality, but there is so much beauty that can come out of it - if you allow it. Out of your weakness comes unrecognizable strength and out of brokenness often breeds masterpieces. For anyone that is at the start of their journey know that I am with you. I hear you, I feel you, I see you. My prayer to you is that God grants you a peace that surpasses your understanding. I encourage you to open your heart to him so that you never have to question what he is doing in your life. And lastly, that you are always empowered to tell your story.

Love + Light,

Tou