Lara Cullen

Just Grieve Lara Cullen

"Just Grieve" is a broken heart in words. What do you say to someone who is grieving? How do you put to words the difficult combination of emotions that come along with loss? The book is short in length, but deep in its ability to offer empathy during incredibly difficult times. It is hopeful, loving, dark, empty, and inspiring. In a period when one might feel utterly alone; with no reason to go on, "Just Grieve" is there as a companion. These poems offer space for a person to be and feel exactly as you are. Written over a ten-year period, this book expresses some of the darkest thoughts, surreal moments, and raw heartache that comes with death. With lines like, "What's the point of any of it when you can have your heart ripped from your chest?" the poetry within; although brief in length, holds a depth of feeling. There are hopeful sentiments as well, but there is no direct intention with the text; simply an extended hand and a heart wide open. There is one simple message from the writer; your pain is all of our pain. Your loss is everyone's loss. You are not alone. You are understood and loved. You sit with yourself, and take as long as needed, but know that you are seen and felt as deeply as the ocean floors, and held as high as the stars above.