Heal from a Loss or Tragedy

The word “grief” is a loaded term in our culture. We often associate it with sadness and loss, especially after the death of a loved one. Experiences of shock, numbness, disbelief, anger, hopelessness, guilt, regret, intense sadness and deep emotional pain are all normal for someone experiencing grief. These emotions may ebb and flow, and some speak of grieving through stages. Looking at loss through this lens can be helpful, but it is important to acknowledge that everyone grieves in their own way. The death of a loved is so much more than just the loss of a loved one, but the shattering of hopes, dreams, and the future that could have been with that person.

When a loved one dies, we not only lose the person, but the part of ourselves that came alive around that person. In that sense, a part of ourselves dies with them. Unless someone else has experienced it, they can only sympathize from the outside, guessing what it must feel like. And unfortunately, many well-meaning friends and loved unintentionally say unhelpful, invalidating, and insensitive things. After initial showings of support immediately after the loss, as the weeks go by the outside world seems to go back to “normal,” but for those who are hurting life is anything but normal. Getting back into the routines of life can help, but at a moment’s notice the grief can still wash over like a tidal wave.

Grief can be especially complicated for those who have lost a child. Miscarriages, stillbirths, death after premature birth, and other losses around childbirth leave many feeling isolated and alone. Questions about whether or not to tell others or have a funeral can be difficult. For those who lose children early in the pregnancy process grief is compounded because there sometimes aren’t visible signs or rituals that have supported the grief process.

Experiencing death inevitably raises spiritual questions about God, and it is not uncommon to experience doubt, confusion, and anger towards God. We allow people the space to grieve. And yet, we do so knowing that we live in hope and promise of the resurrection… that Christ has defeated sin and death, and in Him we have reason to hope.

If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment, please call us at 651-243-2484 or click on the button below. We will do our best to contact you within 1 business day.