13 Things I Would Tell Younger Me About Grief, If I Could
1. There is no such thing as “grieving well.” The right way to grieve is whatever way leads you to Jesus.
2. Moving on isn’t a thing. However, gradually moving forward can be.
3. Grief is a bully. You will be consumed with regrets, loneliness, and self-doubt if you’re not careful. Replace the lies with Truth.
4. You will wrestle with your identity, your purpose, and even your faith. That wrestling can make you stronger, if you let it.
5. It’s probably going to be a lot worse than you expected. It’s also a lot worse than other people think. Don’t expect them to know what they don’t know.
6. You’ll grieve many things, including a version of yourself that isn’t coming back and the innocence of believing nothing bad can happen.
7. Grief doesn’t end in this life. It changes. It can even soften. But you will always long for things to be made whole.
8. Post-loss growth is really hard work. Do it anyway! It’s worth it.
9. Lament is a gift from God! Allow yourself to be raw and honest before the Lord. He longs to meet you there.
10. This process takes a lot longer than you expect. It ebbs and flows like the tide. Be patient, and give yourself grace.
11. There will be unexpected moments of joy in the midst of the pain. Allow yourself to be fully immersed in each one.
12. Profound grief and overwhelming gratitude can coexist. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.
13. You are NOT alone.
🩷Audra