09/07/2026
HOT TAKE: Grief doesn’t have a look. Here, I am on a hike where conflicting emotions were coming and going around a loss that occurred a few years prior. Grief shows up whenever or wherever, even when hiking a mountain. Sometimes it comes predictably like clockwork or by anniversary. But many times, there is no rhyme and no reason for its presence. And like here, not technically visible with a look of sadness.
Another hot take: This author Josie Balka-Young speaks of overwhelm and hope. My interpretation of her words is highlighting individual resilience and promoting perseverance through individualism, not connection
My personal & professional hot take is resilience and perseverance will come, but when grief around loss is new and overwhelming, it is okay to co-regulate the heaviness with someone. We are wired to do hard things, but not alone
So yes, I did end up okay and I did figure “it” out, but only by leaning on others for much of the journey.
And yes, grief did seem impossible and it did end up working out, not because the circumstances changed in my favour but by having patience and compassion for the unwanted change.
And yes, I did survive. Not by relying on own strengths and doing it alone, but by knowing deeply that in moments of overwhelm, it’s okay to ask for help, to accept the help, talk to a therapist, talk about changes in day to day moments or in traditions and the emotions that come with it. I survived BECAUSE of community and accepting help.
And yes, I did have worry in my own grief and I wouldn’t say it wasn’t worth it. When we worry in grief, it’s usually connected to something important, like love. So in my opinion, love IS worth it.
And yes, my worry worked itself out because I didn’t keep it to myself but I talked it out. I shared my uncertainty without receiving reassurance, and my worry got lighter.
And yes, there was a light at the end of the tunnel and I did have a choice. I did choose the light by sharing my grief, by accepting support and having patience for myself & the timeline.
You may only see me in the reel, but the face of grief & mourning is community. I ended up okay because of CONNECTION.