Grief-
The alchemy of being initiated into a new reality often without our permission.
It is a journey through uncertain waters, turbulent with loss and unmitigated confusion.
Grief HURTS. Physically, emotionally, psychologically, spiritually. A universal ache that stifles even breath.
Minds like to label, categorize. They want to make sense of things. Yet, there is no mind file for grief. It must be broken apart, piece by piece, the parts slowly integrated over time. It takes as long as it takes.
Even then, often some pieces are left free floating. Always reminding. Little bits of sweet ache.
Yet, even grief, in all its depth and gravity, has a place in our being. It is meant to break our hearts so wide open all we are left with is compassion, gratitude, and empathy.
Grief creates a clarity so sharp, so poignant, colors appear more precise, the light brighter, the path ahead obvious.
In truth, grief is not meant to break us, but to break us open.
It is not meant to shatter us, but to dismantle our fear, our selfishness, our status quo, so we can live more fully.
To love more fiercely.
To give more freely.
To show up more authentically.
Grief takes us to the edge of grace, so we have no choice but to become it.