When grief was fresh, the pain was raw and my heart was oh, so tender, I desperately needed a safe space to talk about the nitty-gritty of child loss.
And I found it in online bereaved parents’ groups.
I’m so thankful that they exist, that they are maintained by people who give time and energy to keeping them safe and that-for the most part-participants are kind, compassionate and encouraging.
There is something I’ve noticed now that I’ve been here awhile. Many parents tend to drop out of active participation when they get a little further along in their journey.
I understand completely that time, plus the work grief requires, often means a heart has less need for these groups. It’s not that grief dissipates, it’s simply that we get stronger and learn to carry it a little better.
I also know that grief groups can become Echo Chambers and wear on a heart after a time.
We all need a break.
But can I take a moment to encourage those among us who have learned a little, lived a little and walked longer in the path of child loss to stick around?
Newly bereaved parents need to know that they CAN survive.
Your presence-even if you don’t have wonderful words of wisdom-speaks volumes.
When someone comments and shares that her loss was 5, 7, 10 years ago, it helps my heart hold onto hope.
Because if YOU can make it, maybe I can too.
thelifeididntchoose 