Grief and Loss – The Nature of Sorrow

The first chapter in “The Heart of Psychology” explores the nature of sorrow; the gut-wrenching pain we all experience at times of loss. Whether the loss of a parent, a child, a friend, or a beloved pet, grief is real, tangible and awful.

In this chapter of the book, Howard and Ed have a casual and very interesting conversation about grief and loss. At the heart of the discussion is the intensity of his feelings of grief and loss that Ed experienced when his beloved Yorkie, Duke, died. Ed expresses some confusion and feelings of guilt over the disproportionate level of
pain he felt at the loss of Duke, in comparison to that which he felt when his parents passed away.

Dr. Paul has incredible insight into the mind and how our emotions, responses and reactions to life’s experiences are so influenced by our early life experiences and attachments. This chapter is a “must read” for anyone who has experienced the loss of a loved one (whether two or four footed!). You come away from this enjoyable read with a lighter heart, with peace of mind in understanding that the depths of our sorrow mirror the strong feelings of attachment and love we enjoyed with our dearly departed.