I must express my thanks to Joan Wickersham for her perfect insight into the complicated nature of grief (“Grief disorder?” Op-ed, Feb 8). Of course we are individuals, and loss affects and tempers each of us in unique ways. To expect a uniform progression through the grief is not only unrealistic but delusional.

Two years ago I lost my mother, the woman who not only tolerated all my typical selfishness through teenage years but found it in her heart to continue to love me and her other children with a fierce dedication that was truly a gift. She was my mentor, confidant, and friend.