What is grief? How does it impact the person? What can you do to help a friend who is grieving? In order to help someone who is grieving, we must first attempt to understand what it means to walk in their shoes. One of my goals with this blog is to show you, with words, what grief is like. Leave behind the “I could never imagine” and begin to imagine with me for just one
As I type the title to this latest blog post it shocks me to my core and I dissolve into tears. In a million years I never would have thought that I would be advising other grieving families on their child’s gravesite. It is something I had never stopped to imagine or consider and I know that most people don’t. It’s just not a normal thing to think about. As I have walked this path
Let’s talk about overwhelm. I cannot speak to what men experience but I can speak to what so many women experience. We are consistently exhausted and overwhelmed by the many demands life places on us. When grief is added into this mix all of these thoughts swirling around in our heads are suddenly exacerbated one hundredfold. How do I get the laundry folded when I can’t stop crying? How do I show my children peace
This is something I wrote last year on this day. It still holds true. At this time 8 months ago today I was washing my daughters body and preparing her for her siblings to say goodbye. Today, we celebrate the 3 Kings who came to see Baby Jesus. Most of us know the story. Ancient wise men who had read in their books that a mighty King was to be born under this night sky.
Tucked away, deep inside, is a burning love that often comes out as grief. Tears, laughter, memories, all burning holes in my soul pushing me forward toward that day when she is not simply tucked inside my heart but truly in my arms. "Forward!" is the cry of the heart! "Don't stop!" is the chant of the soul. "Courage!" is the shout of the will.
Courage, dear one. Take heart. You have purpose and mission in this life. Be of good cheer! Move ever forward.
#JoyfulLikeMaggie
This has been one of my favorite pictures since Maggie died. Her hair was long and black and she was about the size of the little girl in this picture. What blessed assurance we have!
#JoyfulLikeMaggie
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Please follow our story at www.joyfullikemaggie.com
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I have searched for this artist and not been able to find whose artwork this is. If you know, please let me know so I can add their name.
What is grief? How does it impact the person? What can you do to help a friend who is grieving? In order to help someone who is grieving, we must first attempt to understand what it means to walk in their shoes. One of my goals with this blog is to show you, with words, what grief is like. Leave behind the “I could never imagine” and begin to imagine with me for just one moment.
joyfullikemaggie.com/grief-is-complicated/
"Dear Maggie, I know Heaven is so much better than Valentine's Day here on earth. I still can't help but wish I could give you just one hug. I bought you and your sisters and brother a stuffed animal just like I do every year. It's sitting on your table and looking lonely with no little girl to snuggle it. I made a valentines card for you and that sits alone as well with my tear drops all over it. I'll never get over you and I know I'll always feel this hole in my heart that only you can fill. One day, my girl, and we will never part again. Till then, pray for me every day lest my courage and strength fail. I love you now and forever. Give your baby sister a hug for me. Love, Mom."
Have you ever had to walk with a friend in the darkness? What did that look like for you?
Walking with a friend in the dark can be scary. You may not know what to say or how to act. You may not understand at all how they feel. All of this is ok! The fact is that walking with your friends will give them the support they need and the love they must feel to begin to heal.
So, thank you! Thank you for walking with my family. Thank you to those who reach out. Thank you for your support and prayers and love. Without these, we would not be where we are now. YOU are so important to us.
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