Double Blessing

Last weekend, I gathered with friends to celebrate. We rejoiced with a beautiful young woman, her husband, and family. The couple waited for years for God to bless them with a child. Those years were filled with many ups and downs, with heartache, but also, with hope. Recently, they received word that a precious baby […]

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How Long is Too Long to Grieve?

A year ago, my 96-year-old aunt “Chinkie” skipped the bonds of earth and entered her heavenly home. She was a huge part of my life and continues to occupy my mind almost daily. Cleaning out her home provided moments of quiet grief, but also periods of joy. I thought I knew a lot about grief, […]

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Support for the Grieving

Last week, we celebrated the life of my 96-year-old aunt. Although we miss her, her death was the natural outcome of a long life well lived. At the visitation, many shared stories of their friendship with her and what she meant to them over the years. Those stories delighted and encouraged me. No one said […]

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Handling Holiday Grief

The holidays bring joyous festivities, hustle and bustle, and time with family, but for many, grief is also present. Some grieve the loss of loved ones. Others experience the nostalgia of childhood holiday memories or gatherings that no longer happen. Still others grieve ongoing relationship challenges or difficult memories of unpleasant holidays past. This year, […]

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