Today I was at a conference and a keynote was speaking on positive energy and being a positive person. However when she referred to negative people and negative energy, she referred to grief. In fact 3 different times she referred to grief as a negative quality. She grouped “grief” with other negative characteristics like apathy, anger, and fear.
I’m assuming she may not have experienced life changing grief like that of the loss of child, spouse or parent. I also know she never meant to be offensive; overall it was a great message. However, I’m left perplexed as to why grief is viewed so negatively.
Never let anyone ever tell you that your grief is negative. It’s a part of you and your story. It’s a journey and a roadmap of where we have been. I will say that how we handle our grief, can be positive or negative. If it paralyzes us, defines us, or imprisons us in fear, it is certainly negative. However, we can use our grief in beautiful positive ways to inspire, motivate, encourage, help and change.
I also know that it takes magnificent people to love us with our grief. It’s too hard for a lot of people. Sadly there are those who couldnt stand with me. Only the strongest, most faithful, and secure individuals can love, support and hold those of us who have big grief.
My grief is an expression of my love. I grieve deeply because I loved so deeply. My grief is big because my love was monumental. My grief is emotional because my love was passionate. My grief is never ending because my love is eternal. My grief is wholehearted because my love was unconditional. My grief is beautiful because my love was magnificent.
How do you define your grief?
Patty says
Beautiful as always and as you are.
Tricia says
I love everything about the final paragraph of this blog!
Lillian Conway says
I have thought of you often. I wondered how how the recent news stories may have impacted you. Finding your site and reading your words made my soul smile.
Candace says
Charlotte I was so touched by this and shared it with a friend who lost her son and lives this grief every day. Thank you for your insight and being so willing to share it with others. You touched me.
💜