"Il n'y a rien de fondamentalement mauvais dans le sentiment d'une profonde tristesse qui accompagne la perte"

Feeling a deep sadness when you experience loss is completely natural and, in many ways, it's an essential part of being human. That heavy weight on your chest, the tears that seem to have no end—it's all part of the process. This kind of sadness is not something to be ashamed of or to shy away from. It’s a reflection of your love, your memories, and the significance of what—or who—you've lost.

Historically, this understanding of grief has been acknowledged across cultures and eras. For instance, in ancient Greece, philosophers like Aristotle didn't see emotions as weaknesses. Aristotle believed that feeling grief was part of living a virtuous life; it showed our capacity for love and connection. In more recent times, the famous psychiatrist Elisabeth Kübler-Ross outlined the stages of grief, emphasizing that profound sadness is a natural and necessary part of healing.

Imagine losing a cherished family pet—a loyal dog who's been by your side for years. When that beloved dog passes away, the grief can hit you like a tidal wave. You might find it hard to get out of bed, the house feels emptier, and everywhere you look, there are reminders of your furry friend. In times like these, that profound sadness is an acknowledgment of the joy and companionship your pet brought into your life. It’s a testament to the bond you shared.

So, how do you apply this wisdom in your life? First, allow yourself to feel. Don't bottle it up or tell yourself to "be strong" in the conventional sense. Strength here means giving space to your emotions, not suppressing them. Talk to friends or family members about your feelings, write them down, or express them through art or music. Lean into the memories, good and bad, because they keep the essence of what you lost alive in your heart.

Now, let’s bring this closer to home. Imagine you’ve just moved to a new city for a job opportunity. Leaving behind your friends, family, and the familiar streets can feel like a loss. You might feel a profound sadness about what you’ve left behind. These feelings can be disorienting and lonely. But instead of pushing them away, think about why you feel this way. It’s because you have a life elsewhere that meant so much to you. Call a friend from home—hearing a familiar voice can be comforting. Spend some time reflecting on your favorite memories. Sure, you might feel a pang of sadness, but there’s also a warmth in those memories that can carry you through.

Getting through this sadness doesn’t mean forgetting or moving on completely. It means integrating the loss into your life in a way that allows you to move forward without leaving behind what was important. Remember, profound sadness isn’t a sign of weakness—it's a sign of a life well-loved and deeply connected. Let's honor that.