Unwelcome as it is, when a loss occurs you cannot avoid it. Likewise, you cannot escape grief even though grieving may be one of the most difficult experiences of your life.

Grief takes the time it is going to take. It is difficult to predict the time you or your family/friends will need. Avoiding grief or trying to “get over it fast” rarely works. There are no shortcuts. We each require different amounts of time because we all grieve in our own way.

While your grief is as unique as you are, people often share common feelings, thoughts and stories when they have been through the death of someone close. The next chapter will look at some common reactions.