I tossed and turned last night in bed. I tried several tactics that sometimes work. The tossing and turning reminded me of when I was grieving. I’d try to relax and let sleep overcome my consciousness. I quoted Bible verses I’d memorized, I’d let hymns run through my brain. I even prayed, and asked God to show me who I should pray for.

 This morning I read in the Psalms. It was a familiar  one:

  I am worn out from sobbing. Every night tears drench my bed; my pillow is wet from weeping. My vision is blurred by grief; (Psalm 6:6-7a)

Grief comes with different faces: loss of health, loss of a job, loss of a relationship, and most difficult for me, loss through death.

I am worn out from sobbing….

 

I noticed the sky was lightening and was rewarded  with another sunrise visible this week. It immediately revived my well-being.

Jim and I decided to go for a walk and my heart was full of joy as we strolled along the Columbia River. I saw geese flying overhead in the clear blue sky, conversing in their goose talk. I watched the river sparkle in the sun and as I drew in a deep breath, I experienced joy and simply felt better!

For those of you grieving, please know, it won’t last forever. Scripture promises it:

Weeping may endure for a night,
But joy comes in the morning. Psalm 30:5

How do I know this for sure? Because I’ve experienced it.

Grief happens to everyone at some time in their life and in the grieving, there is work. Depending on the grief, your work is different. It might be working on a resume, networking for a new job, doing some physical therapy, taking new medications. In death, there’s work, too. It helps to contemplate the memories, look at photos, write a letter to your loved one, go through their belongings. And, look to the future. The future is a guarantee, wherever we are. If possible, take a walk today. I promise you it will lift your spirits. Rain or snow. Sunshine or clouds, enjoy the day.