Just a month after conservative activist Charlie Kirk’s tragic death, his widow, Erika Kirk, is facing harsh criticism for appearing “too happy” in public. Kirk, 30, was accused of “moving on too fast” after being seen smiling at events. She responded, sharing that grief is far more complex than it appears.

Charlie Kirk was shot and killed on September 10 during an event at a Utah university. His death sparked a 33-hour manhunt, ending with the arrest of 22-year-old Tyler Robinson, now charged with aggravated murder. Around 100,000 mourners attended Kirk’s memorial at State Farm Stadium, including Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance.

In a moving social media post, Erika wrote, “One day you’re collapsed on the floor crying out the name Jesus… The next you’re playing with your children… feeling a rush of divinely planted and bittersweet joy.” She added, “They say time heals. But love doesn’t ask to be healed. Love asks to be remembered.”

Erika explained her smiles as expressions of gratitude, not denial. “I carry my Charlie in every breath,” she said. Now leading Turning Point USA, the organization her husband founded, Erika’s message reminds many that grief is not linear — and love never truly ends.