Trusting Grief

It's September first. There's a chill in the air, and an ache in my heart.

As I let myself feel this ache, it opens me to the grief I'm feeling because summer is over.

I could talk myself out of experiencing this feeling of loss, but I know better. I could tell myself, "Cheer up! There are so many things to look forward to this fall," or "Don't be silly, seasons come and go, just get on with it," but I won't. I could distract myself with any number of busy-making things to do, but I won't.

I won't because I know from years of trial and error that trying to fix, explain away, or distract myself from my grief diminishes my life. I know that I can't shut down the discomfort of the grief I'm feeling without also shutting down my joy, curiosity, and wonder.

I know that grief is my body's natural healing response to loss of any kind, big or small.
And I know that in allowing myself to feel all the emotions and sensations that come with grieving this loss, I open myself to gratitude for how much I love, value, and cherish not only what I've lost, but also what I have in this moment.

I trust grief.

Grief helps me to be fully present to what matters most to me.

Grief opens my heart to this vulnerable and beautiful gift of life.
 
With Grief and Gratitude,

Lisa