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 losses includes the death of a beloved pet who has been a constant companion. Or an unfulfilled dream. Perhaps a job loss or health issues. These and many more difficult occurrences in life can cause 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 bring joy.
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.
Grief Speaks
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.
God can soothe the ache…
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 of 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
A gratitude list may help with grief. Get my Gratitude Journal
© 2023 Nanette M. Holloway—All Rights Reserved
How poignant for me as today marks the anniversary of my mother’s death in 1996. While her passing was so long ago, the loss is still with me. I miss her wisdom and her guidance. Thanks for sharing this, sweet friend!
Blessings this holiday season, and this anniversary of the loss of your mother. ❤ Moms are special.
Such an important post and appropriate today as I grieve the loss of a childhood friend and empathize with her sibling – the one family member left. So many people grieving during the holidays. Thank you for pointing us toward hope.
I am so sorry for the loss of your friend. Childhood friends are special blessings. Hugs.