A Reminder About Grief (during the holidays)

It is often during holidays and special events that we often miss our loved ones who have passed away. If we are going through a time of loss, the holidays can feel that much heavier. Sometimes it is difficult to hold space for both the joy of the occasion and the feelings of sadness that are a part of the grieving process. I came across this poem by ullie-kaye which gives us a way to conceptualize grief as a gift; to understand that our love for someone doesn't end but rather transforms into something different.

a nearby distance

me: how long will you stay?

grief: for as long as you love them.

me: will I always be sad?

grief: a part of you, yes.

me: what about the other parts?

grief: they will find a new way.

me: a new way for what?

grief: a new way to breathe.

to laugh.

to walk.

to wake up.

to create.

to experience nature.

to see the world. 

to be courageous.

to hear music.

to carry hope.

to speak their names.

a new way to love from a nearby distance. 

ullie-kaye

Photo by Aaron Burden on Unsplash