The posters read, “Never Forget” – a solemn reminder that the tragedy of 9/11 continues to haunt America even 12 years after it happened.
We focus on memorial services, read the names of those who were slaughtered when terrorists attacked us, and we post visual reminders on social media.
It’s okay to be reminded of the grief and to celebrate the lives of those we lost.
But when a woman goes through her own type of tragedy, we expect her to just “get over it” and move on. If she continues to grieve, even 12 years later, we consider her a victim or a person who never learned how to let go.
But grief is messy, and it is unique to every individual. Even the families of the 9/11 victims are allowed to grieve in their own way and to remember what that day represents.
Isn’t it time we give ourselves the same grace?
It’s okay to feel bad. It’s okay to cry – for as long and as loudly as you need.
It’s okay to write in a journal, and it’s okay to tear up a journal.
It’s okay to spend some time alone, and it’s okay to reach out to friends.
We don’t have to be strong for others, and we don’t have to keep busy.
We don’t have to ignore how we feel, and we don’t have to trust whatever or whoever caused the grief.
We don’t have to listen to platitudes, and we don’t have to memorize somebody else’s favorite Bible verse.
All we need to do is remember that grief is a normal reaction to loss, and the first step toward recovery is to be honest about our feelings.
If you’re grieving a loss today, GateWay of Hope is here with counselors and a support group. If you want to talk about it, call us at 913.393.GATE (4283).
We promise to listen.
2013 GateWay of Hope Ministries – The Helping Place for Hurting Women