End of Life

“The LORD is near to the brokenhearted And saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Psalm 34:18 NASB

“Grief is not a disorder, a disease, or a sign of weakness. It is an emotional, physical, and spiritual necessity, the price you pay for love. The only cure for grief is to grieve.” –Earl Grollman

I’ve received many requests about grieving lately and if this is you, I pray for you and your loved one.

Whether you are caring for someone who is leaving this world, or you’ve lost your love, the end always comes. It comes with a crushing, all-consuming blow.

Grief is the final act of loving someone. The deeper the love, the deeper the grief. There are no shortcuts, escape, or quick tricks to avoid grief. Drinking, eating, spending, running, moving, exotic trips or any immediate action will not provide relief or healing. We all try it anyway.

The only thing that starts us on the road to healing is…

Acceptance.

I accept that this will hurt.

I accept the relationship has changed.

I accept some people will say things that hurt out of awkwardness rather than harm. And they will. Do not rub this into your wound. The time will come and you’ll be the comforter.

I accept it will take time and others may not understand how lengthy grief is. They won’t. They will someday.

I accept tidal waves of grief will come but they won’t kill me.

I accept that I may need help and will seek it.

I accept each person’s grief is unique.

I accept I must step into an unfeeling world. Their time has not come.

I accept tears, regrets, and woulda-coulda-shoulda will visit me. Much of it is part of the grieving process and our regrets are probably not true. If true, I will write a letter to my loved one and release it to him/her and the Father.

I accept others’ help.

I accept the bone-aching, heart-wrenching times and just breathe. One step is good.

I accept the bad memories with my loved ones and their illness or trauma will someday morph into precious memories and laughter. Hope.

I accept questioning my faith and pray accordingly. There will be deep, meaningful lessons if we see it through. Better? eventually.

Live in the present. It’s hard, I know. The future is still unknown and the past is gone.

I accept grief is the final act of loving someone. The deeper the love, the deeper the grief.

May you receive comfort, presence, and blessings through “companioning” your loved one’s final journey. The Lord is with you always.

Prayer

Dear Father,

Please bless this heartbroken soul with healing, peace, and comfort. We know this is not the end, but it’s so dark right now and we are shattered.

Lift us. Keep us in your wings. Let us hide in You with thankful tears.

Amen.