My family had a loss this past week that took all of us by surprise. A loved pet of my family member did not survive, and it was devastating to many. Whether it is people or pets, when someone loses a loved one, it hurts a lot. But what so many seem to not understand is that grieving does not look the same to everyone. There is a process that is unique to each person. And, as we all would like to wish for, there is no magic button to make the pain go away. Instead, grief becomes a new reality.
Loved
I lost my dad, going on, 4 years ago. Coming to grips that I will no longer be able to talk to him about my work or talk about music. When he passed away, I thought I was going to be inconsolable and just a mess of emotions. But I learned something about myself since watching my grandparents and my dad pass. I learned that I handle grief differently based on whether or not I was there or involved. Both my grandmothers and my dad, I was there at the home or on the phone. But with my grandfathers, I had no warning, no preparation. I was able to manage my emotions and grief when I had the time to prepare for the loss.
Pets are just as important, and for some, even more important to so many people. Pets are creatures that give you unconditional love. They are always happy to see you. So many are helping people to live longer and fulfilled lives. These are also animals that cannot talk back and can bring a smile to most faces. So, when we lose a beloved pet, it is just as devastating. And as we all believe, these animals always leave pawprints on our hearts.
Peace
There is no “cure” for grief. Unfortunately, grief becomes a part of our new reality. However, one thing we MUST remember. Never allow someone to push you while you are in the initial stage of grieving. Too many try to force others to “get out of the house” or “go meet new people”. Grieving is a process. A chance to walk through each emotion and try to understand this new reality. By forcing or pushing past the process, it is possible to do more damage.
I had a friend that lost a brother very sudden. He was the youngest of the family and no one expected to here that he was alive one day and gone the next. My friend struggled, but has been managing the grief pretty well. But he told me the rest of the family have not been able to adjust to the new reality. This loss was over a year ago, and my friend was telling me this just a few weeks ago. Some are able to adjust quickly, and others take a long time. So, if you ever find yourself grieving, please take my one advice. Do what is best for you. Take the time to feel, cry, yell, or scream. Give yourself permission to get the energy out so that you can adjust. Focus on you.
Enjoy this video.
With great warmth,
