"Its ok that you're not ok"

"Grief is not a problem to be solved; it's an experience to be carried."

Here are 10 lessons you can learn from Megan Devine's book, "It's OK That You're Not OK":

    1. Reframing Grief: The book challenges the societal pressure to "get over" grief quickly. It emphasizes that grief is a natural and messy process, and there's no right or wrong way to experience it.

    2. Acknowledge Your Pain: "It's OK That You're Not OK" encourages acknowledging your pain and allowing yourself to feel your emotions, rather than suppressing them. Bottling up emotions can hinder healing.

    3. There's No Linear Path: Grief doesn't follow a neat timeline. The book acknowledges the unpredictable nature of grief, with waves of emotions that can come and go over time.

    4. Grief is Love in its Wildest Form: Devine suggests that grief is a testament to the love you shared with the person you lost. The intensity of your pain reflects the depth of your love.

    5. Not Everything Needs to be "Fixed": The book challenges the idea that grief needs to be "fixed" or solved. It emphasizes that some things, like the loss of a loved one, can only be carried and endured with strength and time.

    6. The Importance of Compassion: "It's OK That You're Not OK" encourages self-compassion during this difficult time. Be kind to yourself and acknowledge the emotional toll that grief takes.

    7. Beware of "Grief Police": The book criticizes the tendency for others to downplay or dismiss your grief with phrases like "everything happens for a reason" or "move on." Surround yourself with supportive people who understand your pain.

    8. The Power of Creative Expression: Creative outlets like writing, art, or music can provide a healthy way to express your grief and begin to process your emotions.

    9. Grief Can Change You: The book acknowledges that grief can be a transformative experience. You may emerge from this challenging time with a new perspective on life and deeper appreciation for what you have.

    10. Finding Meaning in Suffering: While there may not be easy answers, "It's OK That You're Not OK" encourages finding meaning in the midst of suffering. This could involve honoring the memory of the lost loved one, cherishing the time you had together, or finding strength to support others going through grief.

By offering a compassionate and validating approach to grief, "It's OK That You're Not OK" equips readers with tools to navigate this difficult journey and find healing and peace over time.