We gradually are able to come to terms about the loss. We don't have to like that we loss the item, but we have moved through a process that has let us adjust to the fact that it is no longer part of our actual everyday life. Any lingering feelings might have been attributed to other issues and true grief issues were never dealt with. One of the gifts our child can bring us is the understanding that grieving is a normal part of life's plan. We can take the responsibility to learn about the grieving process, establish healthy coping ideas and gradually heal.
Denial is a normal stage of grief.
It actually protects us from the full intensity of feelings and emotions of the initial shock of loss. But, when denial continues indefinitely, it becomes a block towards healing. Learning to re-direct our energies is a crucial part of the healing process. We, as a society, find many reasons for denying our pain. If I talk about my loss, I will hurt more.