Give Yourself Grace

Sometimes life throws a curveball we never saw coming. It could be a terminal illness, a life-altering injury, or the loss of a parent, spouse, sibling, or friend. It could be financial ruin, mental health issues, or a betrayal we never guessed could happen. It might be the loss of independence, the loss of a home, the loss of one’s moral compass. With so many uncertainties in life, one thing is for certain - every one of God’s children will walk thorny paths, pass through treacherous waters, and experience pain the likes of which feels as though it will never heal.

I felt some of that pain as a young widow and when my mom passed away and three years ago when we lost a dear son-in-law. I felt some of that pain as I experienced a deep, dark depression, watched my children in their struggles, and lost nearly everything we had worked for.

At times, I honestly felt that the sun would never rise, and that the pain would crush my very soul. And in those feelings, I know I am not alone. But I have learned, through those and many other experiences, that, although time does not heal all wounds, it helps us heal.

There was a time I prayed that I would never cry again over the loss of my first husband. I didn’t want to feel that pain. But today, I welcome the tears when they come. They don’t come often, but they still come now and again. And when they do, I see how far I have come. I see the blessings I have received. I see the beauty of remembering.

For those who are struggling during the holiday season, please know you are loved. For those whose holidays have been tipped sideways because of a loss that is too fresh and raw, know that, with time, you will heal. But you will never forget the ones you lost. Give yourself time to cry, to remember, to grieve. And give yourself grace to feel joy and happiness in the midst of your storm.

#givethanks