Good Grief

I’m pretty sure no one will get through life without experiencing some type of grief. Normally, I associate grief with the loss of a loved one, but there are many types of grief. People can grieve for a number of reasons like the loss of a job, a relational breakup, a medical crisis, an estranged family member, to name a few. This devastating sadness is much like waves that crash onto the shore. Over and over again, the tide comes in and out, turning up the sands into a turbulent frenzy. It seems to much to bear at times with the overwhelming feeling that the sun will never shine again.

What I have learned is that grief is not something that ends, rather something to just endure. There is no way to push through it thinking it will soon end. There is no other side or something that is ever completed. Rather grief is acceptance. There is adjustment. There is absorption.  It becomes a part of who you are. It’s an altered life. It’s a different way of being. It’s a circle with no beginning and no ending.

The wound heals, but the scar remains. A reminder of the event in life. At first, it’s tender to the touch. It’s protected from the outside world.  As time goes on, the touch of that scar brings back those memories with a different tenderness. The waves that once crashed are gentler now with the knowledge that something significant transpired.

What will I do with my grief? As I accept, adjust and absorb, I am reminded that others are walking where I have already been. It allows me to understand empathy in a way I couldn’t before. Those trials that come along, that endurance, has made me stronger. I now have a new way of seeing, and a new definition of one’s self. 

This life allows each one of us to experience new ways of being. That being allows us to understand, show compassion, and love others. 

Health bite: Embrace life experiences and live fully to love others

Seeking Healing

The definition of healing is the process of making or becoming sound or healthy again. Healing is a process indeed, yet don't we want things instantly? The body and mind can seem to become ill quickly, however, the healing can take weeks, months, or years. Many times, while looking back, we can see signs of illness that was not picked up on in the beginning until the illness was at a point where it altered our way of life.

Healing is a process that does take time, energy, commitment and discipline. All of these things are also required too for a healthy relationship with God. As people, we are creatures of habit...more often bad habits. We choose foods that are unhealthy, we stay up way too late, and we only talk to God when we want something. Pathetic isn't it? While it's true we will all die, it's how well do you want to live while you are alive? What purpose does Christ have for you? Are you using your skills and talents to serve Him?

The more I read, the more I realize I have a lot to learn. There is growth to be done. In some ways, I think God continues to teach and work within us until we die...that is if we allow him. I certainly have gone my own way and thought I knew best. That is until I came crashing down. This journey called life takes time, patience, and lots of prayers. Daily devotion to our creator, basking in His glory, giving credit when credit is due are all ways to honor the Father of the universe.

Healing of the body, mind and spirit is also a journey of faith, commitment, and dedication. No one escapes pain and disappointment in this life, but how we react to what comes our way matters. "And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose." Romans. 8:28. Trust the One True God who will give you strength. Spend daily time at his feet and seek comfort. He will heal all the brokenness.

Health-bite: run to God for healing of mind, body and spirit