I know, not the most eloquent way to put it, but it's true. I wish Hallmark would come out with a card with such brutal honesty. When we experience any kind of loss, it really turns our world upside down. Routines change, emotions come in unexpected waves, our thoughts, once clear, become muddled.
I'm working with a group of wonderful, faith-filled people dedicated to ease the burdens of those who are grieving. We are developing a faith-based support group for all types of grief--death of a loved one, divorce, diagnosis of a medical illness, to name a few. Last night, a member posed an interesting question that has given me some thought: Are we really changed by our grief? Don't we essentially stay the same but adapt to a new circumstance?
Grief is personal. One person may have renewed faith after being diagnosed with an illness, another may lose their faith altogether. One person may find new meaning in life after a loved one dies, the other may not have any change in their outlook at all.
Any life event gives us the opportunity for personal growth. In times of grief, I have witnessed people grapple with emotions they never experienced before. I have seen people find new ways to honor their loved ones. I have known many who are inspired to help others with similar tragedies.
A very wise professor once said, "We cannot change and remain the same." So simple, yet so thought provoking.
Has your grief event changed you?
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