Thank you for this reminder that it is definitely OK to not be OK. And for those supporting someone grieving to sit in the not ok with that person too. <3 As a Narrative Therapist, 1000% agree with honoring and acknowledging the many layers of grief and that it takes the time it takes. One aspect of Narrative Practices I particularly think is helpful is the idea of 're-membering' rather than 'moving on or forgetting.' Re-membering provides opportunities for the person grieving to speak about the person (or pet) that died and to choose how to keep them alive in their life rather than 'moving on' which US culture seems to push hard on people. An example of Re-membering is: a man keeps the photograph of his wife to whom he was married 50 years at her spot at their kitchen table and each morning he has coffee with her. This is beautiful and healthy. Many people are far too quick to say to someone grieving 'oh, you must move on.'

Thanks for your insights. Re-membering instead of simply moving on. Not letting go; instead reinforcing the past connections and shared instances. Keep them „alive“ in our memories. Surely there will be some regrets, too. The acceptance of what is will come. Later. Much later. Moving on does not mean forgetting completely.