As February unfolds, the world transforms into a canvas of pink and red. With scarlet
blooms for the garden and pillows embroidered with whispers of love, I am surrounded by
the continual reminder that soon, I will have to confront another “first” without the love of
my life.
In her poignant book, Loss, Donna Ashworth writes, “Get used to grief, my friend, for once it
calls, it does not take its leave… it sticks like sea to shore… it won’t be escorted out, so
usher it in. Let the grief win. It’s love turned inside out.”
Exactly. Grief is a cruel and unwelcome guest that may retreat for a while but inevitably
reemerges with deeply stabbing reminders of my loss—a favorite stained coffee mug or a
cardinal feather resting against the rain-soaked earth. It’s love with nowhere to go, a heavy
weight that tears apart my tissue-thin heart each time I try to lift it.
I’m only beginning to allow my grief to exist alongside me rather than resisting it. I’m
learning it is essential to embrace the tears, the memories, and the heartache,
understanding that grief is a testament to the deep love I once shared. Letting it in offers a
strange comfort, validating my feelings and honoring what was lost.
But I cannot walk this path alone. I need the gentle shoulders of friends and family to soak
up my tears and remind me that I am still loved. More than ever I’ve also found that
spending time with fellow believers creates a safe and sacred space where my sorrow can
be shared and understood. We gather, supporting one another, and in our unity, I find
solace.
In moments of solitude, I turn to God in prayer, where the silence becomes a backdrop for
reflection. I am fortified by the precious and magnificent promises found in His Word,
drawing strength from passages that resonate with my sorrow and illuminate the path
ahead. These quiet moments with God remind me that I’m never truly alone and that He
cares for me.
As I listen to melodies and lyrics that speak to my soul—expressing emotions that words
often fail to capture—I find unexpected relief from my grief and am able to begin
cultivating thankfulness for the blessings that surround me, even in my sorrow.
This Valentine’s Day may be marked by mourning, but through embracing grief, seeking
connection, finding comfort in the Word, time in prayer, and cherishing the gift of music,
my heart can be lifted and able to bear the weight of sorrow and loss.
” The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
Psalm 34:18
