Lionel Richie was a guest recently on The Kelly Clarkson Show to promote his new book, Truly. Their discussion turned to a universal subject that most of us shirk - grief. Clarkson's husband, Brandon Blackstock, passed away in August after a battle with cancer. Fans' hearts went out to her and her two young kids after their painful loss.
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Everyone deals with bereavement in the way that feels right to them. It might not even entail the death of a person to spark the grieving process. It could involve the loss of a beloved pet, a fulfilling job, or a treasured home that burns down in a fire or natural disaster. When you lose something or someone that matters to you, that loss is irrevocable. Coping with it is challenging. Finding healthy ways to grapple with the situation is essential.
Clarkson Asked Richie How He Arrived at His Philosophy of Grief
Per Entertainment Now, Clarkson drew Richie out on his thoughts about grief. She said, "I do think that a lot of people deal with grief in such a different way, but I love that you say, 'Grief is the great teacher of what matters most.' And I think no matter how you deal with grief, it is very different (for) everyone, but I do find that very true. How did you figure that out?"
Richie answered her with candor and compassion. "You know, there's an old expression where you go, 'It's real. I mean, it's a real moment when you can't 'phone it in.' but at the same time, we rehearse things. You can't rehearse grief. You can't rehearse the loss of your mother or your father or a friend."
Clarkson observed, "And it hits you in waves."
He Said He Has Looked Deeply Inward When Confronted With "Uncontrollable Grief"
Ricjhie has seemingly pondered this topic. "You can't rehearse that, and so what I've found, is that when I get involved with the word 'uncontrollable grief,' I let go. And, believe it or not, I look forward to finding out, 'Who am I gonna be, really?' Cuz that's the real me."
Clarkson responded, "And, honestly, the release,"
Richie came back with this wisdom. "The release. If it hurts so badly, that means you loved so deeply." How true, How very, very true.
Their serious talk ended on an upbeat note. Per the outlet, "Richie got up and put the palm of his hand on Clarkson's forehead as the audience laughed, and she threw up her hands, shouting, 'Hey!' Laughing, she popped up and said, 'I feel healed!'"
