Grief
I lost you in a season
when the wind had no name,
and the silence you left
never learned how to settle.
You laughed like it meant something,
like the world might forget its bruises
just for a moment
if it could echo your joy.
God, that laugh —
it cracked open rooms
like sunlight through boarded windows.
Even now, it haunts me in kindness.
But your bottle was heavier
than my hands could ever be.
And no matter how I reached,
you always slipped just past saving.
You drank like you were trying
to un-feel the whole world,
and I watched
as it swallowed you slowly
while you smiled like it was fine.
I gave you my firsts.
My heart.
The softest parts of my soul.
But none of it
could anchor you to this earth.
I still wake up wondering
if you’re cold somewhere.
If you know I would’ve stayed,
even through the storm.
If your spirit ever found peace
in the places your body never could.
People say it’s been long enough.
That I should move on.
But they never kissed your forehead
while your voice cracked in the dark,
or heard you say
you’d try again tomorrow.
If I could hold you now,
I wouldn’t try to fix you.
I’d just sit beside your shadow,
tell it it’s not alone,
and whisper:
“You mattered. Still do.”
You were chaos and charm,
pain wrapped in poetry.
And I will always carry
both the love and the ache
of losing the boy
who burned too bright.
Grief is a universal human experience, often encompassing a range of emotions such as sadness, anger, and confusion. In literature, grief is frequently depicted as a journey, where individuals confront not only the loss itself but also the memories associated with their loved ones. The process of grieving involves acceptance, as individuals learn to live with the absence of those who have passed. This includes recognizing the unique ways that grief manifests—some may express their sorrow openly while others internalize their feelings. The experience of grief can be compounded by circumstances surrounding the loss; for instance, if a loved one battled addiction or experienced trauma, the feelings of grief may be intertwined with guilt, frustration, and helplessness. Encouraging open conversations about grief and normalizing the varied responses can help those grieving feel less isolated. For many, creative outlets like poetry and writing become vital tools for processing emotions. These forms of expression allow individuals to articulate their pain and celebrate the lives of those they have lost. Support networks, whether through friends, family, or professional counselors, are crucial in helping mourners navigate their feelings. Sharing stories about the deceased can bring comfort and create a sense of connection among those who grieve. Ultimately, healing from grief is not about moving on but about finding a new way to exist that honors the love shared with those who are gone. It is essential to remember that healing is a personal journey, and individuals must find their own path through remembrance and acceptance.
