Time out to grieve

I have been quiet for a while and have taken some time out to grieve the loss of my dear Dad last year. It's been tough and a journey that can't be hurried. There's been a mixture of emotions, from the immense gratitude that I had my Dad in my life for so long to the enormity of life without him in it. Grieving has taken its toll both physically and emotionally, and on those around me. I am grateful for the love and support I receive from my partner, close friends, and strangers; however, in many ways, we negotiate grief on our own, and there is no right or wrong way to do it- just 'our' way. What I have learnt in this time is that it can't be hurried or bypassed; I am allowing myself to enjoy the memories, taking time to appreciate the here and now, spending time outdoors, seeing nature and being creative. Finding out who I am now..... and going forward, who I want to be.

I have no doubt this will resonate with many people, as none of us will escape grief at some point in our lives... and if it's with you now, please know you are not alone.