‘My sadness is not a burden’: author Yiyun Li on the suicide of both her sons

theguardian.comPublished: 5/17/2025

Summary

Radical acceptance paired with external activities like writing and gardening helped Yiyun Li navigate her grief after losing two children, offering her peace amidst immense sorrow. By setting an early morning routine, reading literature, and writing, she found structure to engage with her children's memory without attachment. These strategies not only provided comfort but also highlighted the importance of finding meaning in life beyond loss, suggesting that external activities can help others cope and find resilience during difficult times.