NORMAL IS GONE

“Normal has disappeared. I don’t know what that is anymore,” Kathy said. 

Grief impacts our thoughts, emotions, physical health, and spiritual well-being. Simply put, it affects everything. Our normal is gone.

No wonder we feel crazy sometimes.

From the Grieving Heart….

Is this normal?

Life is anything but routine. Everything feels surreal, and weird. 

My thinking isn’t sharp. I forget things, appointments, even birthdays. I lose words and can’t seem to express myself well. Focusing on anything is difficult.

My emotions are up and down. I’m more irritable and impatient. I’m moody and often zone out. Sometimes just staring at the wall feels good. 

I have strange physical sensations and symptoms. I trip and bump into things. I’m tired all the time. 

I question things I didn’t before – deep, spiritual things.

No wonder I feel crazy sometimes.

I need to find someone who knows. I don’t know whether to be concerned about me or not. I need perspective.

I don’t want to be a burden. I’m sorry. 

Please be patient with me. I’m grieving.  

Grief affects the whole person

Grief affects everything– our thoughts, feelings, physical health, and spirituality. The impact is stunning, making it difficult to discern what’s normal and what’s not. 

Spending time with others who know grief can be immensely helpful. When fellow grievers share their experiences, we realize we’re not alone, we’re not crazy, and we might somehow make it through this. 

Where do we find these people? Usually in support groups, but the thought of going to a group can be intimidating to someone who’s hurting. We’re more vulnerable than usual. If we can get past the fear, getting around others who know grief can be comforting and encouraging.

Let’s be honest. Most of us feel abandoned by some of the people we counted on. We need new people to step up. Chances are these will be others who have experienced similar losses. Powerful, meaningful relationships can form during this time, if we’re willing.

“I’m glad we’re in this together.

Let’s find others who know grief and can walk with us.”

Adapted from the newly released bestseller Please Be Patient, I’m Grieving: How to Care For and Support the Grieving Heart.