When Grief Steals Our Oxygen

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Life can take our breath away. Literally.

“It’s constant. I had no idea how hard it would be. The depth of the grief is astounding,” Maggie shared.

“Sometimes I feel like I can’t even catch my breath.”

Maggie’s husband Ted had died of pancreatic cancer six months earlier. No wonder she was gasping for air.

Grief carries a powerful punch. It slams us emotionally and physically. Our immune system can be compromised. We get sick more often.

Perhaps you literally can’t catch your breath. Hyperventilation is a natural result of the anxiety that accompanies a large loss. Grief pounds your entire system and affects your whole person.

Chances are you’re surprised by how constant, hard, and deep your grief is. All of this honors your loved one and your relationship. Grieving is not for sissies. It takes serious courage.

Here’s an affirmation for today:

“My grief is deeper than I imagined, but I can meet it with courage today.”

 

Courage isn’t the absence of fear, but the willingness to feel the fear and not be controlled by it.

Grief can steal our oxygen. Take a moment. Breathe deeply.

You can be courageous, again today.

 

Want more? Grab your copy of Heartbroken: Healing from the Loss of a Spouse (Amazon Bestseller, USA Best Book Awards Finalist, National Indie Excellence Award Finalist) today.