weiterleben

weiterleben is a German word that translates to "to continue living" or "to carry on" in English. It encapsulates the act of moving forward with life after experiencing a significant event, often a loss or hardship. The concept is not simply about physical survival but also about emotional and psychological resilience, the ability to find a new normal and to reclaim a sense of purpose and meaning.

The process of weiterleben is deeply personal and varies greatly from one individual to another. It involves acknowledging the past and the impact of difficult circumstances, while simultaneously engaging with the present and future. This can manifest in various ways, such as gradually returning to daily routines, forming new relationships, pursuing old or new interests, or finding ways to honor the memory of what has been lost.

While the term often implies overcoming grief or trauma, weiterleben can also refer to the natural progression of life following less tragic but still impactful changes, such as a major career shift, relocation, or the end of a significant life stage. It highlights the inherent human capacity to adapt, heal, and find ways to continue living, even when faced with profound challenges. The core idea is not to forget or erase the past, but to integrate it into a renewed and ongoing life.