January 7, 2026
Living with Grief
“The reality is that you will grieve forever. You will not ‘get over’ the loss of a loved one.” — Elisabeth Kübler-Ross
Grief does not have a timeline. The loss of a child reshapes every part of life. Many parents hope for a moment when the pain finally disappears. That moment rarely comes. Instead, grief becomes a part of daily life—woven into quiet moments and loud ones alike. The intensity may soften with time, but the sorrow remains. Learning to live with grief means accepting its presence without letting it define every breath. Grief becomes a lifelong companion, not an enemy to defeat.
The idea of “getting over” loss can feel like pressure from others and from within. Parents who grieve often face the expectation to heal quickly. Society wants grief to have an end point, but the heart knows otherwise. Memories, love, and loss blend into a permanent space inside. That space can feel lonely and vast. Sharing the truth of ongoing grief can break isolation. When grieving parents connect, they find strength in shared understanding. A community of hearts holding grief together helps lessen the weight.
Grief may change shape over time, but it never fully disappears. Sometimes grief flows like a quiet river. Other times, it crashes like a storm. Recognizing the ongoing nature of grief can bring peace. The goal is not to erase grief, but to carry it gently. Holding grief with kindness toward oneself helps the heart breathe more easily. A grieving parent’s love never fades. Love and grief coexist, shaping a new way to live.
Thought for today: Grief is forever, but so is love. Let both live gently in your heart.

On August 16, 2017, my son, Anthony James Cristello, took his own life at the age of 35. That day, I joined a worldwide club no one ever asks to be part of.
Thank you for letting me share my experience, strength, and hope with you. I only ask this: believe that I believe—hope is possible.
Bob
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