GRIEF BEATITUDES

BLESSED are those who recognize our grief is compounded.
BLESSED are those who allow us to mourn the loss of one dearly loved, without judgement or censure.
BLESSED are those who do not offer the meaningless cliché, "Time Heals", because for a long time the passing of time holds no meaning for us.
BLESSED are those who don't say, "I know just how you feel", but instead say, "I am here for you. I will not tire of your tears or your words of sorrow and regret."
BLESSED are those who have the patience and love to listen to our repetitive obsession with WHY? without offering useless answers or explanations.
BLESSED are those who reaffirm the worth of our deceased beloved by sharing memories of his/her goodness and times of fun, laughter and happiness.
BLESSED are those who lend acceptance to the value of the relationship we shared with the one who died by allowing us to speak of them and 'what might have been'.
BLESSED are those that allow and encourage us to use our loved one's death in a manner that gives our loss and grief meaning and purpose.
BLESSED are those who do not expect us to find "closure", "grief resolution", "recovery" or to "be healed", understanding that these terms define 'grief work in progress' that will take the rest of our life.
BLESSED are community caregivers who direct us bereavement support groups where our anguish is understood, our loss validated and where we are encouraged by the example of others who have traveled this road before us.
BLESSED are long-term survivors who role-model not only can we survive the loss of our child, but, in time, we can thrive… we can regain peace of mind, restored confidence, renewed productivity and a revived zest for living.
Adapted from writings by LaRita Archibald