...Grief...

 

You were unsure

what was worse..

The shock of what happened

Or the ache for what never will. - Simon Van Booy

 

Grief, where to begin. I think I will start by saying grief is not exclusively about death of a person but can be the loss of a relationship, a view of how your life could have been or relearning to live a different way.

"Grief does not change you. It reveals you." — John Green

We talked last time about mental health and my experience is that, for me Grief is always at the heart of my struggles. When I reached the point I needed help, grief had overtaken all of my thinking, my sense of self and how I viewed the world. I have faced grief many times, like all of you too and every time it needs your attention and time.

My beautiful friends and family have also experienced grief, all unique, all challenging and deserving of space to remember. I am a firm believer in talking, even if its uncomfortable and talking about our loved ones with people who loved them or love us keeps us all feeling connected, understood and that our feelings matter.

"Grief can be a burden, but also an anchor. You get used to the weight, how it holds you in place." — Sarah Dessen

I am writing about grief because in my job it is part of our work. From Sympathy florals to casket sprays, wreaths for birthdays or I’m thinking of you flowers they are all sent with love and the acknowledgement that grief surrounds us and we all want to be part of the healing process. It is part of being human and although all grief is unique it is an emotion that all of us will share.

Pre Covid I am known for hugging grieving families while we discuss their tributes for loved ones, or including Grandparents who are no longer here in the buttonholes for weddings so they are still thought of and missed.

And as a florist creating your last gift for your loved one, or creating a birthday wreath to show your ongoing love is an absolute privilege and joy. I think flowers have an amazing power to heal and express our thoughts and feelings.

“Unable are the loved to die. For love is immortality.” — Emily Dickinson