Sheesh. Grief. It’s unpredictable, isn’t it?
Sometimes it wafts in on a gentle breeze and other times it hits us like a thunderstorm.
Thirty-nine years ago, our daughter Ashley Nicole was born on May 1st and passed on the 10th. This year it’s been a bit extra emotional. I think it’s the timing of Mother’s Day and missing my mom too.
I know, you know.
Grief is utterly uninvited and unwanted. It wars against every fiber in us because we’re wired to love and nurture life, not to say goodbye.
This sadness is slamming me today. Maybe you feel it too.
Whether it’s the loss of a job, a dream, or a relationship ~ grief is our common and unavoidable human experience. But while it’s absolutely universal, it’s intensely personal. And it’s often a lonely place.
So we’re careful not to stuff it or run from it. We breathe deep and sit with the pain.
We let our tears release what our minds can barely accept and what our bodies should not hold on to.
With grit and grace ~ courage and gentleness ~ we make a raw choice to keep our emotions moving up, out, and forward. Because we want to thrive in this abundant life we’re given. We don’t want to give pain the last word or let it rob us of joy and peace.
So we get to turn grief around for our good and for the good of others.
On Ashley’s birthday, I went to Jewel-Osco and asked to pay for a pre-ordered birthday cake. The manager showed me one with “Happy Birthday, Oma” written in pink frosting. So I blessed Oma, her family, and the bakery manager. In turn, it gives me happy tears and honors our baby girl’s memory.
This is Ashley’s legacy: To redeem pain for good, to trade ashes for beauty, and sadness for joy.
Maybe this message is a bit too soon for you. If so, please know you are not alone.
And if it seems you can’t move forward with your grief, maybe it’s time to talk to a counselor. I’ve spoken to many through the years.
Wherever you are today, I pray you experience God’s comforting presence and redemptive power.
“To all who mourn in Israel,
he will give a crown of beauty for ashes,
a joyous blessing instead of mourning,
festive praise instead of despair.
In their righteousness, they will be like great oaks
that the Lord has planted for his own glory.” ~ Isaiah 61:3
☮️❤️ May you find Peace and Happy Tears.
Photo from Pixabay.com
Oh, I love the idea of paying for someone’s preordered cake. What a sweet way to bless a family and remember your precious daughter. I’m so sorry for that loss, but thankful that the Lord has used it to help you write posts like this, helping others.
I saw the idea on Facebook a couple years ago. The recipient of the blessing posted a picture of the card that came with the cake. It’s fun to do and a puts a positive spin on a sometimes difficult day. Beauty for ashes … all things redeemed 🙌
I am sure you brought great surprise and joy to an unexpected family. You blessed them with kindness. And I know it warmed your heart too. Love ya!
It was so fun to do. And yes, blessing them blessed me too. It put a joyful twist on a bittersweet day. Love you, Carol!