Is Grief a Universal Language? 3/4/10
March 4, 2010
As I watched the faces of the most recent earthquake survivors in Chile and those in Haiti, I knew what they were feeling even if I couldn’t understand the words…it was grief.
Relief agencies are usually onsite within hours to provide assistance to meet the immediate needs, such as water, food and shelter. But we know that once those physical needs are met, there are other emotional needs to be addressed as well. And, it may be a long-term task. I’ve said before “Grief is the residue that remains in our heart after the tears have dried on our face”.
And, this residue can remain for years…often so deeply ingrained from inattention or pushing it down, that it can suddenly reappear without warning, reminding us that it has never been resolved.
Grief is an “equal opportunity” emotion—it knows no race, creed, or gender. It’s often accompanied by feelings of anguish, disbelief, anger and fear. That’s why it’s so important for having ways to express our grief; and promote a dialogue about what is often a “taboo” topic. Our country, as is the case with many other cultures, is a grief-illiterate nation. It’s painful to talk about grief…but then, grieving is a painful process, but a necessary one.
Given its universal nature, we need more discussions about grief, and more support available for those grieving.
Sharon Clark
www.griefinterlude.com
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