Deanna Beaver
I have experienced a lot of grief in the last five years. Close family members and friends have left Earth to walk the golden streets of heaven. The one thing I’ve come to realize is that everyone grieves differently for different people. There’s no perfect way to grieve.
In Ecclesiastes we’re told there’s a time and a season for everything. But how do we know when the time is over? Who dictates that’s it’s time to stop grieving? I say it’s never over. I have heard of well doers telling others that they need to “get over their grief” or “It’s time to move on.” I think this is preposterous!
From my experience, just when you think you’re in control, there are triggers that cause a sudden influx of tears. Maybe it’s a date or a place that relates to the special person or thing we are grieving. It could be another person’s presence, a particular place, a movie, or a memory that may send you to the tissue box. I do know that everyone doesn’t grieve in the same way.
How can you compare one person’s grieving to someone else’s? What evidence do you possess that suggests this person grieve a certain way in a situation? Some people react physically and emotionally, while others may not show any outward sign at all.
Reaching out to an individual that has suffered a loss is important. Whether it was a family member, co-worker, friend, or pet, each loss deserves respect and remembrance. Say the name of the deceased and bring up good memories.
I do not know your personal situation regarding grief. I would like to extend my heartfelt condolences and prayers to you and your family. I would also like to offer an ear to listen and a shoulder to cry on—just reach out.
For me, I rely on God to help me through these sad times. The Bible is a source of comfort to me. Ecclesiastes 3:1-4 states there is a “time to weep” and “a time to mourn.” Psalm 34:18 says, “The Lord is near to the brokenhearted.”
What has helped you through a grieving period in your life? Leave a comment below.
