You know grief can manifest itself in many ways. Holding onto items with the feeling of not wanting to let go because it's under your control is one way that spouses handle it when their mate has passed. Sometimes they don't even recognize what is happening until it's overwhelming.
I know that accumulating an inordinate amount of items can lead to hoarding. In your mind's eye, you can't recognize it because surrounding yourself bring comfort. A complex issue that others are hard pressed to understand. Yes, the neighbor's gossip was wrong. But she has attempted to help. In a roundabout way, she finally did, and it sometimes takes that to "wake up" from your comfort.
Thanks so much for your visit and analysis of both sides of the issue. I appreciate it and your support. Take care and have a good rest of your day.
RE: 12 March 2026, Freewriters Community Daily Writing Prompt Day 3040 | Prompt: still living with that (sigo viviendo con eso)