My last post explored grief in the midst of joy. More specifically, the ache of letting in goodness while still carrying pain. I ended that post with a statement I feel deserves a bit more exploration: nothing comes without costs. That includes healing. 

When I say the word “grief”, who or what comes to mind? Perhaps you think of a beloved family member you lost, or a treasured pet you buried long ago. Maybe a recent lay off is what surfaces for you, or the ache from a break up still hangs around. If you talk to those close to you about grief within these contexts, most people would understand. They would tell you that it’s normal. “Give it time,” they’d say, “it will pass.”

But what happens when grief shows up in the midst of joy?