Dealing With Loss During the Holidays
For some, you will experience your first Christmas without a loved one. Whether through death, divorce or distance you are dealing with loss. I want you to know that you are not alone.
I am reminded of the poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow who on Christmas day, 1864, received word that his son, a soldier in the Civil War, had been wounded. Just two years before, Henry had lost his wife in a fire. As this devout Christian man sat alone with his grief, on the most joyful of Holy Days, he penned words of hope to challenge his own despair. He called his composition Christmas Bells. Little did he know that those words would someday be set to music and become a blessing to millions of people around the world.
If you are struggling to find peace in the midst of the holidays this song below and my dear friend Kelly’s story may comfort you.
Kelly lost her father at the tender age of 10. Following his loss she went through a long journey of pain, sadness and depression. None of us are immune from life’s tragedies and Kelly’s story of hope and strength in God – is a source of inspiration to me. Read it here!
Walk with the King!
I too knew your story Kelly, but not in such detail. Thank you so much it was beautiful and brightened my day! I've been through my share of losing loved ones too! I agree with you that the pain we have come through, in ways we don't really understand, truly does enhance us and help us to better understand others in their times of need and loss.
Thank you for your reminder, Courtney. For many, it's a painful time of year with shadows of grief. How important that we breathe comfort and kindness on those around us.
Thank you Kelly for sharing your story with others. I was blessed by how you gave all of the glory to God, even through such a difficult trial. Through my tears for your loss, I was so encouraged by your words of faith. Thank you for sharing!