Finding Light in Grief
Finding Light in Grief: Reflections on Faith, Friendship, and Forgiveness
July has been a tender month, marked by the ongoing ache of grief but also woven with moments of hope and healing. As I navigate this season, I’ve found comfort in small, sacred spaces—devotionals, honest friends, and the gentle nudging of the Holy Spirit. Here’s a glimpse into my journey, shared in hopes that it resonates with anyone walking through their own hard days.
One of the anchors this month has been Heather Hair’s devotionals on grief. Her words have been a balm, reminding me that sorrow doesn’t have to define the story. In one devotional, she writes, “Grief is not a destination but a journey, and God walks every step with us.” This truth has been a quiet companion, helping me see that even in my pain, I’m not alone. It’s a reminder that God’s presence is steady, even when my heart feels unsteady.
There was a day this month when the weight of grief felt unbearable. I reached out to a friend, hoping for sympathy to soothe the hurt. Instead, she offered something even more valuable—truth. As a follower of Jesus, she gently reminded me to lean into faith, to let His perspective guide my response to pain. At first, I bristled, but her words sank deep. I’m so grateful for friends who speak truth, even when it’s hard to hear. They help me see beyond the moment, pointing me back to the One who holds it all.
The Holy Spirit has been at work in my heart, teaching me the slow, sacred art of forgiveness. I’ve been struck by the constant reminders that forgiveness isn’t a one-time act but a daily choice. It’s a decision to release others, trusting that God’s justice will unfold in His timing. For those who believe, that justice was already served on the cross—a truth that frees us to let go. This month, I’ve been learning to unclench my fists, to let forgiveness flow as a gift to myself and others.
My family, especially my husband, Craig, our boys and my brother Gerald, have been a lifeline. On the really hard days, their kind gestures—small acts like a hug or a shared laugh—have been rays of light. Craig, in his practical wisdom, suggested I keep track of my days. He had a hunch I was having more good days than I realized. He was right. When I looked back, I saw that while most days were “okay,” the bad ones were balanced by moments of joy and connection. It’s a simple practice, but it’s shifted my perspective, helping me notice the good God weaves into even the toughest seasons.
And then there’s the bold step I took this month—launching my first full book, A Crash Course in Trust: Embracing God’s Faithfulness in Difficult Seasons. Sharing this memoir, born from our family’s journey through uncertainty from 2021 to 2023, felt vulnerable but exhilarating. The positive feedback from readers has been overwhelming, filling me with courage to keep writing. Your kind words and stories of how the book has touched you remind me why I write—to encourage others to see God’s faithfulness in their own difficult seasons.
If you’re walking through grief or facing your own challenges, I hope my story reminds you to look for the light. Lean on friends who speak truth, choose forgiveness daily, and trust that God is working, even in the hard moments. Keep track of your days—you might be surprised by how many good ones shine through.
What’s been a source of hope for you this month? I’d love to hear your story.
