Can you think of all the times in your life when you were drowning in pain and disappointment? It may have been that time you were laid off from a job, your spouse had an affair, or you had a miscarriage after waiting years to get pregnant? Maybe you experienced it during your final round of interviews for a job. It seemed perfect, but then you find out they went with another candidate.
I believe it doesn't matter what causes pain and disappointment. The results are the same. You have more questions than answers. There is a feeling of emptiness and confusion, and you are left wondering what your future holds.
I can relate to you. That is exactly how the death of my sister made me feel. I could not comprehend how I could see her on a Sunday before leaving for a work related trip for a week and then a week later, my mother knocked on my door to share that she had died. It made no sense at all to me, and at that moment, I had more questions than answers. I was thoroughly confused and in a daze. The pain was overwhelming, and I wasn't quite sure what to do next. What would life be like without her? The pain of it all was unbearable at times. It didn't go away overnight. Grieving is a journey, and there is not a quick fix. It has been over two years, and at different times, I still cry and feel that void in my life. There are the steps that helped me, and I hope they are helpful to you:
1. Accept truth
2. Be truthful with myself and others about how I felt each day
3. Work through my feelings
4. Find resources and activities to help me along my journey
5. Be intentional about asking for help when needed and stay connected with people.
It was easy for me to isolate myself. However, I knew if I did, I would spiral downward.
I wrote this poem during another season of my life but had to refer to it after the death of my sister. I keep it tucked away because I knew that I would need the reminder in the future. Today, I want to share it with you. My prayer for us this week is that we honor our feelings about any pain or disappointment we are facing. Instead of saying, ‘I'm great!’ that we are honest with those we trust to say ‘Today, I am not doing well, but I know it will get better!’
Hold On
By Erika Greene
It seems dark now, but the light will eventually shine.
It seems confusing now, but I promise it will make sense after a while.
It looks like you're alone, but some people can relate.
It seems hopeless today, but God will not give you more than you can take.
It is painful today, but I promise the pain will eventually ease.
The storm is raging, but it will eventually end, and you will experience His peace.
Today, your tears are symbolic for your pain and sorrow.
Eventually, they will be symbolic for your freedom and hope for tomorrow.
"Depression," Pain," Hopelessness," engraved in your heart today.
"Freedom," Joy," Peace" will eventually take their place.
Hold on! Don't give up! God's word says "weeping may endure for a night, but joy will come in the morning."
Hold on! Don't give up! He's a man that will fulfill all of his promises.
