Skip to content

Art Quote by Elizabeth Lesser

“There is an art to grieving. To grieve well the loss of anyone or anything--a parent, a love, a child, an era, a home, a job--is a creative act. It takes attention and patience and courage. But many of us do not know how to grieve. We were never taught, and we don't see examples of full-bodied…” quote by Elizabeth Lesser
Download Open image
“There is an art to grieving. To grieve well the loss of anyone or anything--a parent, a love, a child, an era, a home, a job--is a creative act. It takes attention and patience and courage. But many of us do not know how to grieve. We were never taught, and we don't see examples of full-bodied grieving around us. Our culture favors the fast-food model of mourning--get over it quick and get back to work; affix the bandage of "closure" and move on.”

Elizabeth Lesser

About This Quote

Source Book: The Art of Grieving (essay collection) by Elizabeth Lesser, 2015

Grieving is a creative, intentional process requiring patience and courage, yet modern culture often pushes quick, superficial coping.

In simple terms: Grief needs time, attention, and courage, not shortcuts.

Key Takeaway

Allow yourself space and practice to grieve fully.

Themes

grief healing culture emotions growth

Mood

somber empathetic thoughtful

Type

psychological cultural

When to use this quote

  • loss of a loved one
  • end of a relationship
  • job loss
  • community mourning
  • personal trauma

Key Concepts

psychology ritual mindfulness

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does grieving look like for you?
  • How can you support others in deep mourning?
A Different Perspective

Fast‑food mourning can prevent true healing.

4.4 out of 5 (10 ratings)

More by Elizabeth Lesser

Explore all 216 Elizabeth Lesser quotes

More Art quotes

Browse all 48,652 Art quotes