When I was 19 years old, back from my first year of college, my world was shaken by a devastating phone call. My dad received the news that my friend Esteban had died in a drunk-driving accident on a highway in Texas.
It's important to recognize and honor all forms of grief, not just those related to death and divorce. Grief is often overlooked when it comes to non-traditional losses like "empty nest syndrome" - when your kids go away to college or move out of your house.
Society teaches you that experiencing grief is wrong or bad. The Grief Recovery Method challenges that misconception, helping you to understand that grief is a natural, necessary process.
Though it seems unfair, we all deal with grief. When it's your turn, remember that your children are watching. How you operate and grieve will set an example for them.
A few years ago I lost a dear college friend, Esteban, to a drunk driving accident. When I received the news, I was engulfed in a fog for about 30 minutes. As I emerged from that haze, I began to reflect on our relationship.
In the wake of tragedy, it's important to remember that feeling pain and grief is a natural part of being human. Whether it's a public shooting or a violent natural disaster, your emotions are valid.