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Deep love Quote by Henri Nouwen

“Real grief is not healed by time... if time does anything, it deepens our grief. The longer we live, the more fully we become aware of who she was for us, and the more intimately we experience what her love meant for us. Real, deep love is, as you know, very unobtrusive, seemingly easy and…” quote by Henri Nouwen
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“Real grief is not healed by time... if time does anything, it deepens our grief. The longer we live, the more fully we become aware of who she was for us, and the more intimately we experience what her love meant for us. Real, deep love is, as you know, very unobtrusive, seemingly easy and obvious, and so present that we take it for granted. Therefore, it is only in retrospect - or better, in memory - that we fully realize its power and depth. Yes, indeed, love often makes itself visible in pain.”

Henri Nouwen

About This Quote

Source Book: Reaching Out: The Three Movements of the Spiritual Life, 1992

Grief deepens over time, revealing the profound love and significance of the lost person.

In simple terms: Grief grows, showing love’s depth.

Key Takeaway

Honor love by remembering its impact.

Themes

grief love memory time reflection

Mood

somber reflective

Type

philosophical emotional

When to use this quote

  • memorials
  • counseling
  • journaling
  • support groups

Key Concepts

attachment loss meaning spiritual growth

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does remembering love change your grief?
  • What rituals help you honor loss?
A Different Perspective

Time alone may not heal; active processing is needed.

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