February 2023

January plunged me into unexpected grief on the sudden passing of my dad.
Some weeks later, as life moves on and February dawns with its glimpse of lighter days & early spring growth, I am mindful of the wisdom of these words.

Any form of loss, no matter how small or great, no matter its shape or form, needs time to be processed. Time – that precious gift that passes us by with stealth and discretion. There are moments, however, when we need to ‘press pause’ and take stock of what it holds, what it offers, or what it may teach us.

What nature of loss do you carry in your body, heart, mind or soul?
Be still – and know God. With you. In the heartache and fallout.
Be honest with Him about your pain, disappointment, bewilderment, shock, fear, regret … &/or whatever else you feel.
Allow yourself time to be kind to yourself as you would be to someone else. Ignore the pressure to be and do your usual things; some you may have to keep doing, but are there others you could lay to one side for a time? For me, it was social media, and that was good, though possibly minor to what you may sense you need to rest from.
Give time to open your heart and know God’s comfort, peace and words of reassurance.
And in time, His good & perfect time, you will smile again, not just with your lips, but from your eyes … from your heart.