Journal entry by Al Negstad — a minute ago
G, a wise widow at church told me "Often anticipating a difficult anniversary is worse than the anniversary itself." This rings true to my experience. Perhaps it is, at least in some measure, a result of the emotional preparation done in anticipation. Having now passed through a number of significant anniversary dates I'm optimistic about my recovery. Yes, much to the surprise of some, I have managed to live without adult supervision for a year. 😉
Truth be told, some of my recovery was a matter of luck. It seemed logical, and a bit of self preservation so I didn't have to answer have to answer endless questions about Joanne's status, that I take over the Caring Bridge posting from Joanne. Once I had started posting it just seemed natural to continue, so I did. With numerous responses from readers I was led to continue. So, when I read the "flames" posted last night from Jensen's booklet I thought "wow, write...honor the one who was lost," well, that's what I've been doing. Was it intuition? instinct? blind luck? Who knows...but it has been helpful to me.
"Lamps On The Path, continued" from Jensen's booklet
"!3. Take advantage of a religious affiliation. If you have been inactive, this might be the time to become involved again. For some people, grief opens the door to faith. After a time, you might not be as mad at God as you once were."
"14. Get professional help if needed. Do not allow crippling grief to continue. There comes a time to stop crying and to live again. Sometimes a few sessions with a trained counselor will help a lot."
"No matter how deep your sorrow, you are not alone. Others have been there and will
help share the load if you will let them."
"Take advantage of a religious affiliation." Yes, Grace University Lutheran has been a huge part of my healing and recovery. Every time I attend, there are hugs, expressions of concern, references to Caring Bridge and an atmosphere of hope, love and acceptance. The music, messages, rituals and,the all important coffee hour, all nurture. Martin Luther called the coffee hour, i.e., "the mutual conversation and consolation of the saints" sacred. Yes, indeed!
Blessed Easter to all!
Al
Truth be told, some of my recovery was a matter of luck. It seemed logical, and a bit of self preservation so I didn't have to answer have to answer endless questions about Joanne's status, that I take over the Caring Bridge posting from Joanne. Once I had started posting it just seemed natural to continue, so I did. With numerous responses from readers I was led to continue. So, when I read the "flames" posted last night from Jensen's booklet I thought "wow, write...honor the one who was lost," well, that's what I've been doing. Was it intuition? instinct? blind luck? Who knows...but it has been helpful to me.
"Lamps On The Path, continued" from Jensen's booklet
"!3. Take advantage of a religious affiliation. If you have been inactive, this might be the time to become involved again. For some people, grief opens the door to faith. After a time, you might not be as mad at God as you once were."
"14. Get professional help if needed. Do not allow crippling grief to continue. There comes a time to stop crying and to live again. Sometimes a few sessions with a trained counselor will help a lot."
"No matter how deep your sorrow, you are not alone. Others have been there and will
help share the load if you will let them."
"Take advantage of a religious affiliation." Yes, Grace University Lutheran has been a huge part of my healing and recovery. Every time I attend, there are hugs, expressions of concern, references to Caring Bridge and an atmosphere of hope, love and acceptance. The music, messages, rituals and,the all important coffee hour, all nurture. Martin Luther called the coffee hour, i.e., "the mutual conversation and consolation of the saints" sacred. Yes, indeed!
Blessed Easter to all!
Al
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