Loss

We all experience loss time and time again. Whether it is a friend, a family member, a pet or relationship/friendship, loss is inevitable. We all deal with loss differently.  We all grieve differently. Some like to be alone, some surround themselves with loved ones and others choose to ignore it. It doesn’t matter how you grieve and I am sure psychologists around the world can tell you a thing or two on what is considered normal. It just really doesn’t matter. I lost loved ones and friends and it is never easy. Whether they are gone forever or just gone their separate ways, it is always hard. I have a way of just ignoring but that is not always the answer. I pretend it doesn’t bother me as much as it does or sometimes it doesn’t bother me as much as it should. I am very good at denial. I’m so good at it that I don’t even realize what I’m doing but that is a topic for another day.

The hardest lost for me was my Grandpa. I was only 17 and I do not feel that I had enough time with him.  Since I am the youngest, I have the least amount of memories but the ones I have are kept close. My favorite thing about my Grandpa was his laugh. He had great laugh. It came from deep within. I loved his humor. His favorite joke to tell was” I have pills for my memory but I forget to take them.” He would let me crawl on his lap and color. He and my Grandma introduced me to Herbie and we would always go for walks. If it weren’t for him, my parents wouldn’t have had enough money to drive to South Carolina and back to get married. He was a great man and his faith in God was untouchable. He died knowing God was with him and he would be okay. He told my mom he was more worried about us then himself.

My best friend back home is going through a similar loss today. Her Grandpa’s kidneys are failing and he is dying. I know the loss is hard for her and I want her to have God on her family’s side. I know she does not believe but I believe it doesn’t matter. One of my favorite Psalms is “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Psalm 34:18. How true is this? What could be better than to have him there when you feel your lowest. I didn’t always have unbending faith but time has taught me that I need God in my life. God loves us all and I have to believe that my faith is enough to help her through this tough time. God is with her even if she doesn’t want to believe. I can picture her rolling her eyes at me right not. But “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. I cannot doubt the power of God even over those who doubt him.” Matthew 5:4.  

She inspired me today. She also brought back painful memories but I know what she is going through and know how incredibly strong she is and she doesn’t like to admit weakness. She doesn’t think she needs God on her side and I would never push it but I pray for her family and pray that this loss in time will not bring so much sorrow but bring the amazing memories he gave them over the years. I had the pleasure meeting him several times over the last 10-12 years and he is so friendly and kind.  He will be missed terribly but he will also be remembered greatly!

I leave you with my Grandpa’s favorite Psalm. Keep your love ones close and tell them you love them!

Psalm 23
The LORD is my shepherd,
I shall not be in want.
He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters,
He restores my soul.
He guides me in paths of righteousness
for his name's sake.
Even though I walk
through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
they comfort me.
You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.
Surely goodness and love will follow me
all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the LORD
forever.

~ L