Understanding Grief

Grief is normal.

Normal, Predictable Components of Grief 

Immediately:   When the Loss Happens, or is Learned About:  Shock and Denial ("that can't be true").

Then: Suffering 

1.  We express emotion--tears of sadness, fear, panic, helplessness.

2.  We may feel depressed and very lonely.

3.  Physical symptoms of distress may be felt.

4.  We may become anxious and firghtened about going on with life.

5.  There may be a sense of guilt about the loss.

6.  Hostility and resentment may fill our heart and mind.

7.  We may feel unable to return to our usual activities-friendships, work, church.

Eventually:  Recovery 

1.  Gradually we return to our feet and resume our normal functioning.

2.  We struggle to adjust to reality, to live with a new normal.

3.  Painful feelings about the loss may remain for many years, even though life has resumed. 

The length and intensity of each condition varys with each individual.  Most people go back and forth between the various feelings and conditions.  When friends think you are not suffering you may still be in shock and denial. 
When friends think you are recovered you may be quietly still deep in suffering. 

Whatever the stage you are in the arms of Jesus are around you.  Jesus is weeping with you.