Definition Essay-The Five Stages Of Grief

Have you ever experienced grief? If so, you know it needs no definition. If you look up the definition up you will find an extremely vague description. Grief is such a vast emotion, so how can it be put in one sentence? How can grief be universally defined, when it is felt individually? Grief is abstract so therefore, cannot be that easily defined. Overall, I believe that Suzanne Finnamore said it best when she said, "Grief is a circular, irrational process with no discernible rhythm or timetable."

As you may know, grief accompanies a significant loss, like the death of a loved one. Many people assume that grief follows a definitive guideline, that it has a beginning, a middle, and an end. In my experience I find this inaccurate. Grief is contorted, and uncertain. For a moment life can seem ordinary, as if nothing transpired, you may manage to find your way back

These stages are reoccurring and constantly shifting.

Of course, grief leaves you shocked. Shock leads to denial which is a coping mechanism that allows you to take in the distressing event at your own pace, granting freedom from the harsh reality that is your situation, and time to process. During this period, you feel "not fully there." You will feel as though you're watching passively, helplessly, from a distance, as your whole world crumbles around you.

As you may know, anger allows you to camouflage your anguish. This animosity allows you place blame. This allows you to project your fears somewhere else for a little while, giving you time to cope. You may become enraged at God for having the power to stop something unfortunate from happening and allowing it to happen anyways. You may be furious with someone who may have caused the tragedy. Or, worst of all you may resent the loved one you lost for leaving you alone, without a goodbye. During this span you ask "Why them?", or "Why