Misnomer of Grief

August 12, 2011

There is a misnomer out there that says when we grieve there are things we can do that will help us “get over our loss.” Like going on vacation, or getting a massage, or going shopping or eating. Last time I checked these things hadn’t helped. In all fairness I haven’t gotten a massage yet but I don’t hold out any hope for that to help.

At this time (literally the moment this post is published) one year ago my phone rang telling me of my uncle’s suicide.

In that year we have vacationed, moved, lost my grandfather, preached, and served.

We even paid our student loans, bought a car, and finished seminary. And yet none of that seems to erase the grief. None of that seems to wash away the questions or the unfinished conversations.

I have yet to find a magical way to fix any of the grief. Popular psychology seems to think it is possible but I would venture that they are wrong.

It does appear that the only thing to do in those moments of extreme grief and oppressive questioning is to hold on to the promises of hope and new life found in the resurrection of Jesus.

Maybe a massage does work? I don’t know….what do you think? What do you do?

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