Grief

Grief is an emotion we have experienced alone and an emotion we have shared. It's an emotion we will experience and share again.

We usually think of grief as a negative. It's sorrowful and lonely. Sometimes it can even be oppressive.

But grief can also be a memorial. An act of love.

The Buddha taught us to be aware of our emotions. To acknowledge our emotions. But to avoid being controlled by our emotions.

I know, from sad personal experience, the depth and strength of my grief is related to the depth of my love.

When grief comes, I don't hide from it, I'm not embarrassed by it.

I embrace it, experience it, and hold it.

I allow grief to be my personal memorial.