Welcome Back, Smile


I just passed the one-year anniversary of a loss that I didn’t realize would hurt as bad as it did. 

In terms of losses, mine doesn’t even come close to those who have lost loved ones. Those losses are the forever kind. Those losses heal far more slowly, if ever.

 

I had the loss of a dream—something conjured up from my youth, nurtured through my parenting years, and then throughout my working career. It was a retirement dream—being able to go back to the summertime family cabin that was the closest place to heaven that I’d ever known. 

 

I imagined being the special grandma just like my grandma had been. I’d curate lifelong memories in a magical place in the woods just like I’d known.

 

I had to leave those special scenes I had already written in my mind and give them to God. It simply was not my dream to live. 

 

Instead of asking God “Why?” I have gradually learned to ask him “What?” As in what do you want me to learn? 

 

It wasn’t a quick answer from God. But he helped me relinquish what I couldn’t have so I could see more fully what I already had. Indeed, I’m blessed with a place to curate those special memories for my family.

 


So, here’s another question I asked God: “How do I get over the hurt?” The answer? With Him. Sometimes our losses are an invitation to grow closer to God. I have.

 

For those going through a loss of hope, or a dream, or far worse, the loss of a loved one, if you travel with Jesus, he brings daily comfort, hope, peace, and even brings back your joy. Give it time. 

 

Yes, even my smile is finally coming back to its full power.


I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in him.  Romans 15:13


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