Grief is complex. One minute it’s there and the next minute it’s gone hiding.

 

You’ll think you’re home free until it opens the door and walks in when you least expect it.

 

Other times it’s like a shadow you can’t get rid of. One that feels like a warm blanket that’s smothering you. It’s hard to outrun.

 

It becomes a roommate that you have a love/hate relationship with-but I’ve learned it is a leg of your journey that you must embrace. It’s a valley you must go through rather than around.

 

Grief is a journey. A journey into memories of the heart. Pushing all the emotions down will do little for your healing. Your best bet is to talk it out and face it honestly. With Jesus and with others.

 

So often when in a room of women grief finds company. It helps one realize they are not alone and all the emotions are normal.

 

Grief is tricky. It plays hide and seek. One little bitty trigger can send you into a 3 day binge of tears and sorrow. It’s ok. That’s normal too. Learn to recognize it.

 

Trying to put words to all the emotions helps but is not always possible and time has a way of helping but I’m not convinced time heals.

 

Only Jesus does really-but people can help.

 

You’ll likely want to go into isolation but please don’t. You need the hugs and there are those who want to give them.

 

Quiet time will be necessary but be sure it’s a healthy quiet.

 

Jesus is there. You may not feel Him in the midst of the pain but it doesn’t change the fact that He is. Truth declares Him near to the brokenhearted. When you’re ready to talk, He’ll be right there waiting.

 

Give yourself time. Be kind to yourself. Be patient with yourself. Cry when you need to. Laugh when you can.

 

The shadow of grief lingers sometimes depending on every unique life. There is no timetable to measure its stay. Don’t compare your journey of healing with any other. Its apples and oranges. Loss hurts and deep love brings deep grief. You’re ok to feel it all.

 

Again, Jesus is still there. Waiting. He’s looking after you even when you don’t know it. He’s a constant Shepherd. Steadfast. Faithful. You can count on Him.

 

Let Him sing to you. He has lullabies for hurting hearts even when we are big people.

 

When you’re hurting the most picture Jesus bottling your tears. He has to get pretty close to catch them I reckon.

 

Maybe that image is something you can cling to…