Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. (John 14:1)

How do you process your own grief?

I have found that I process my grief in small amounts, sometimes by talking through things with people, but also by spending time just by myself, and doing things like writing posts.

Over the past year, our dog Hannah died, and she was a member of our family for 10 years. This past March, my Dad died in the hospital at the age of 90, and recently, within the last week, my Mom also passed away, in the same hospital, at the age of 86.

In order to get things done, I realize that I have had to set aside some of my grief for a later time.

When our dog died, we both grieved, as Hannah was a constant companion for my wife, and it took time getting over the loss of our canine friend. Hannah was God’s gift of grace for us, and her love for us knew no bounds.

My Dad was a faithful provider for our family, and he was married to my Mom for 65 years. Over the last few years, my Dad suffered from Alzheimer’s, and my Mom remained committed to his care, even though it was very challenging for her at times.

My Mom took one day at a time, and she would always tell me that we are in “her thoughts and her prayers.” One of her desires was to remain in her own home, even after my Dad passed away, and fortunately, that desire came true. Her public nurse describes my Mom as being “free, fierce, and faithful” to have lived her life, as she did, and this particular nurse has truly been a blessing sent from heaven, for our entire family.

So, in short, I have been able to process my grief in part, but not in whole.

I hope this brief reflection, over the past year in our lives, can bring you some hope and encouragement, as you take time to grieve and to remember your own loved ones.

Prayer:

Lord Jesus,

Help us to take one step at a time, and one day at a time, as you help us to process our grief. May you provide us with your reassuring words, your ongoing comfort, and your continued strength, as we move forward with you from these places of despair, and into a brighter future with you. Amen.