Grief is hard work

Grief is defined as the emotion felt when experiencing the loss of a person or something important to us.

Death does not discriminate. It touches the young and old, and often snatches from us those who are healthy and vibrant. Grief and stress are normal and natural reactions to any change that occurs in life. Although we acknowledge death is a part of life, few of us spend time preparing for it. It is not simple but complicated and messy and seldom follows a linear or logical path. We will each experience grief in our own unique way and process these events differently.

Grief is not just a response to death. Stress and stressful events come in a variety of ways and can be accompanied by grief. Many different issues can relate to grief, for example, the loss of a spouse or loved one, job loss, the diagnosis of a life-changing illness, marital separation or divorce, unplanned pregnancy and the results of choices made around that, mortgage troubles or the foreclosure of your mortgage or loan(s), changes at work, changes of sleep patterns, changes of church activities, pet loss, even the loss of trust, loss of safety, sexual assault, domestic violence, and the loss of control over your body are among the shortlist. At any moment the reality of loss can take us to our knees, and mental and emotional darkness could engulf us! Then lifes purpose becomes muddled; no joy or happiness, not to mention dreams appeared to have died. Loss requires us to choose between finding ourself or letting things destroy you!

There is no right way to grieve and no easy fix, but there are ways you can help yourself within the process. Despite the pain, the process of grieving is an important part of how we come to terms with this loss. Your friends, family, and community of believers can provide much-needed support during a time of loss.

Reconnecting with yourself is a huge step towards the healing process, as grief can have a disassociative effect. There is no formula for getting to the place where people think you should be. Grief is such a personal thing and very complex. However, reducing your grief or stress can have a positive impact on your physical well-being.

Many life events can bring with them elements of grief, but feeling a little loss is part of being found. Take your time, don’t be afraid to nurture yourself during grief, whether it is from a job loss, loss of mobility or other freedoms, retirement, or death. If you are struggling to come to terms with your loss, you may find it helpful to speak to someone about your feelings. Many people find bereavement counselling helpful, and sometimes even psychological interventions are necessary.

Revelation 21:4 is one of the most powerful verses that will comfort you in a time of loss. All change is scary, but eventually, you will find there is a hidden silver lining, and everything will fall into place.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

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