Honouring Grief: A Journey Without a Finish Line
- Elizabeth Houston
- Apr 28
- 2 min read

Understanding Grief: It’s Okay to Continue Grieving
Grief is deeply personal, unfolding in its own time. Many people worry about still feeling the weight of their loss years later, fearing societal judgement—“I should be over it by now.”
But grieving has no deadline. It’s normal to carry the effects of loss long after the event.
The Myth of “Getting Over It”
A harmful misconception suggests that grief should end within a fixed period. This idea pressures individuals to suppress emotions rather than process them.
Grief isn’t something you “get over” but something you learn to live with. Each person’s journey is unique, and there is no “right” way to grieve.
The Reality of Delayed Grief
Delayed grief occurs when emotions connected to a loss emerge later—months or even years afterward.
This can happen when someone prioritises others’ well-being, avoids painful emotions, or doesn’t fully grasp the impact of their loss until later. Recognising and accepting delayed grief is key to emotional healing.
Embracing Your Grief Journey
There’s no single path through grief—your timeline is yours alone. Consider these steps:
Acknowledge Your Feelings: Sadness, anger, numbness—all are valid.
Seek Support: Therapy, groups, or conversations with loved ones can help.
Be Patient with Yourself: Healing isn’t linear; allow yourself time.
Understand Delayed Grief: If emotions surface long after a loss, know this is a natural response.
Conclusion
Grief is a lifelong process, and your emotions don’t have an expiration date.
By acknowledging what you feel, seeking support, and allowing yourself space, you can honour your grief journey in a way that respects your own experience.



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