We all have times where we have to deal with various types of losses, not just death. Loss affects us all because it brings a pain that cannot be ignored. It exposes our vulnerability.  We lose control of life with death; we can’t control the pain that we feel.

Grieving is a confusing and disorienting process that takes time. It’s not orderly, nor does it follow a time table. Everyone’s grieving experience will be unique because everyone’s loss will be unique. Don’t rush the process.

We can be assured that God will walk with us through the journey no matter what you have lost. There is a lot of overlap of stages or back and forth movement.  But if you get stuck in one stage for too long, you may need professional help.

Even Jesus when he was a man walking the earth felt the pain of loss after his friend Lazarus had died. John 11:35 simply says, “Jesus wept.” It’s a pause in the story to let us know that Jesus experienced the same types of emotions that we do at the loss of a loved one.

The stages of grief start with shock & denial followed by a floodgate of all types of emotions. It’s important to allow yourself to just feel whatever you feel. During this time, you may also receive comfort from others. As time passes and you begin to heal, you will be able to accept your loss and move forward with your life in your “new normal”.

Finally, you reinvest in life. You become willing to once again connect with others. Give yourself the freedom to enjoy life again. Moving forward in life will be difficult and may bring conflicting emotions but know that your loved one would want you to keep living and to enjoy life.

Download a free resource to help you in the grieving process here.