For the past several years, I’ve spent a lot of time writing books – like Grief Survivor~ 28 Steps Toward Hope and Healing; and speaking at events to help other people who have loved and lost. It’s a whole ‘nutha level of grief when it’s one of your own people! Two days after Christmas my family lost one of our finest- my brother Mike’s hilariously fun and beautiful wife- Kay. Since then, I’ve tried to lean in to some of my own reminders from Grief Survivor. For anyone who is missing someone they love right now, I wanted to share a few of my favorites:
* it’s OK to cry; and it’s also OK to laugh,
* surrounding yourself with people who make you smile is good medicine, (see photo)
* praying with thanksgiving, rather than worrying- can fill your heart with peace; and is better than Ambien on a sleepless night. (credit: Philippians 4:6)
* say yes to friends who want to reach out to you.
* there’s no time frame for grief; and that closure is for bank accounts. Not love accounts.
* do something kind for yourself every day.
My brother Mike is one of the most optimistic and faith-filled people I’ve ever known. In the midst of the deepest valley of his life, He continues to look up and notice God’s gentle reminders that everything’s gonna be OK. Some of Mike’s greatest blessings these days are his adorable grand kids. They are sweet reminders that God is still God; and God is still good.
Thanks, Mike- for reminding us to never stop looking up. We love you!!!
With Christmas coming up- I wanted to share this for anyone struggling with the loss of someone you love. God’s peace,
