If you’ve ever been grieving and found yourself nodding politely while thinking, “Ouch… that landed terribly,” you’re not alone.

One of the hardest parts of grief isn’t just the loss itself.
It’s navigating the comments, advice, and awkward attempts at comfort that come flying at you—often from people who genuinely care.

That’s why I created this Grief Bingo card.

Not to shame anyone.
Not to mock kindness.
But to name something most grieving people experience and rarely feel allowed to talk about.

Because grief doesn’t need to be fixed.
And it certainly doesn’t need to be rushed, reframed, or spiritualized on someone else’s timeline.

Why “Helpful” Words Can Hurt So Much

When someone says:

• “At least they’re in a better place,”

• “Everything happens for a reason,” or

• “You’ll be stronger because of this,”

what the grieving heart often hears is:

• Your pain is uncomfortable.

• Please move through this faster.

• Let’s skip the messy middle.

And grief simply doesn’t work that way.

Grief is love with nowhere to go.
It’s personal.
It’s nonlinear.
And it doesn’t respond well to clichés—no matter how lovingly delivered.

The Truth Most People Don’t Know

Most people say the “wrong thing” not because they’re unkind—but because our culture is deeply uncomfortable with pain.

We’re taught to stay positive.
To look on the bright side.
To fix, explain, or spiritualize suffering.

But grief doesn’t need silver linings.
It needs witnessing.

Sometimes the most healing words are:

• “I don’t know what to say, but I’m here.”

• “This really hurts.”

• “You don’t have to carry this alone.”

No solutions.
No timelines.
No pressure.

A Gentle Invitation

If you’re grieving, let this bingo card remind you:
👉 You’re not too sensitive.
👉 You’re not grieving wrong.
👉 And you don’t owe anyone emotional comfort while you’re hurting.

And if you love someone who’s grieving, let this be an invitation to pause before you speak—and choose presence over platitudes.

Because love shows up best not in perfect words,
but in honest, quiet, compassionate company.

You don’t need to say the right thing.

You just need to stay.