Grief

For a long while, I have noticed and resisted and — yes — resented a distinct trend being set and applauded by our culture. It is this: People are hurried along, our grieving and sorrow duly noted, and often shared, not perfunctorily, but honestly — by those who love us and want the best for us. And then — and THEN — there is a perceptible shift.

Like a 1950s housewife finishing up cleaning her kitchen, the last cup and dish wiped, the table cleared, the pots washed and put away — she surveys her neat, orderly kingdom. It is now time to put out the light and bring the cat in. Or let the cat out. Whatever. But, wiping her…