Grieving a Good Thing

I knew the day would come. Every mother knows it will. We spend years teaching our sons to become responsible men, hoping they’ll someday find a woman who loves God, loves them well, and wants to build a life together. Then one day it happens. The wedding arrives. Everyone smiles for pictures.

The People Who Stayed

Relationships may change or even end after loss. Whether the loss was the death of a loved one, marriage, health, career, or another deeply cherished dream, many people shared the same story. They didn’t expect friends to disappear. The responses I received after writing about this last week, reminded me how universal that experience really is. Connections changed. Invitations became fewer. Phone calls stopped. Some friendships faded gradually while others seemed to end overnight.

When Friends Disappear

One of the most painful losses after a major life event is often one nobody talks about. It's the loss of friendships. Most of us assume the people who’ve been around us for years will remain there when life falls apart. We imagine our friends will know what to say, how to help, and how to

Restoration May Tary But It's Never Late

Age twelve and the oldest of four, I gathered my siblings into a huddle to shield them. Our parents were pointing shotguns at each other in our living room. I thank God they didn’t pull the triggers Half a century later, both parents, long divorced, show end-of-life symptoms. Tears fall or laughter bursts without warning; the emotions are tumultuous.

Something Worse Than Death

Both of my parents are facing imminent death due to age and disease. I’m surprised at the strong emotions I’m experiencing, especially since losing my 9-yr-old daughter and my 23-yr-old son. One brother has died and of course other family members. I have many loved ones with the Lord now. Life has not been easy. But God…