Good Grief

Recently our family has come face to face with death, not of family members, but of friends. It's been an interesting time for me because I haven't had many experiences with death. The only time someone close to me has passed was my great-grandmother several years ago. I kept my composure for the entirety of the service, even as I sang. The moment I lost it was when they put her away in the mausoleum wall. This woman, who endured hardships just to make a better life for her family in America, was put away like a shoebox. It just felt so...so...final. Other than that, it hasn't really hit me close to home. It's not that other family members hadn't passed away. I wasn't close to them so it didn't affect me as much as it affected others.

I've had the privilege of standing by my husband, Lee, as he has been a listening ear, a strong shoulder, and an unwavering voice for those around him. I have seen him handle these past few weeks with such great honor to the families who saw their loved ones depart too soon. I have watched as he prepared to speak at both services. I completely admire the strength and dignity he has shown. I think about my encounters with others who have lost loved ones. One particular experience stands out: A co-worker lost her mother and when I attended the wake, I shook her father's hand and said, "Nice to meet you." He looked at me and gave a tight-lipped smile. He was probably thinking, "What an idiot!" (I know I was thinking that.)

A few months ago Jasmine, a friend of mine, suddenly lost her dad to cancer. John was one of the greatest examples of what a father, husband, friend, and Christian should look like. His death was an enormous loss to all those around him. She recently posted a YouTube video on what NOT to say to someone who is greiving. (Man, I wish I would have seen this years ago before my foot was ankle deep in my mouth!) I thought it would be a good idea to share it because it provides insight into what those who are grieving need from others. It gives a real perspective on how to handle those who are grieving. Please take a few moments to watch and learn from her experience. (Also, please subscribe to her channel. She's great.)

#grief #healing