photo by Olesia-Buyar via unsplash
Grief can dampen our holiday cheer. Grief is a unique state of heart and mind resulting from significant loss. Usually, the death of a loved one. But many other difficult life situations can contribute to feelings of loss.
Other significant loss includes the death of a beloved pet who has been a constant companion. Or an unfulfilled dream. A job loss or health issues. In several instances these difficult occurrences in life bring about a disturbance in our self-concept and self-worth creating an internal crisis.
Grief can consume emotions with painful sadness or ruminating about the loved one who is deceased. Feelings of loneliness, depression and even anger can occur leaving us drained and tired. Often bereaved individuals are unable to sleep.
The unique state of loss demands spiritual, emotional and physical attention. A persistent nag to be acknowledged.
So often the norm does not touch the deep hurt within the heart. Such as praise and worship at church, or sermons which previously ministered to us, no longer have an effect.
Pleasantries like movies or even certain friends may no longer be enjoyable.
Grief is a New Existence
Life has taken a downward turn. The previous world enjoyed—gone. Dreams stolen by a heartless fate. A person taken too soon.
A family member deceased. Irreplaceable. The empty seat where no one speaks. Words longing to be heard but taken to the grave. The tone of love now silent. Forever gone. Yet crying out to be heard in the too quiet world.
Oh, to hear the familiar voice and see the sweet smile. The silence too loud—pounding, trampling the heart. The deafening silence that refuses to speak.
Awaiting the phone call that never comes. A trick of fate that torments unrequited grief. Understanding evades the saddened heart.
Often, we wonder, “Does anyone hear?” Or “Does anyone care?
Grief seems a foreign language no one speaks. Pain is too deep for such utterance to spout.
Cry aloud to God who gives ear to the hurt.
Prayer for those who Grieve
Father God, speak to the hearts of those who grieve. Manifest your abundant loving kindness and grace in the lonely silent expanse without a loved one by their side. Gift them comfort and reassurance of your love in this hour. Amen.
God’s Whisper
My Beloved,
I hear your tears trickle from eyes that weep, the silent sigh and the muffled cry. My heart knows the hurt hidden beneath the smile.
The sun shines no more. Only darkness, your gloom.
Lift your eyes, My Beloved to the rising moon. The stars shine bright in the distant sky.The Bethlehem Star meets the manger scene. The son of God brings peace, love and joy.
A glimmer of hope to comfort your heart. A glimpse glory to brighten griefs’ way.
Let me walk with you my Beloved while your heart grieves. I comprehend the deepest of pain. Rest in my arms. Let me embrace your hurting heart.
Love, The Father
Before You Depart: God’s Touch before Eternity
© 2021 Nanette M. Holloway-All Rights Reserved
