13 Comments
User's avatar
Beverly Hudson's avatar

Thank you for this. If I were sitting beside you or across from you as you spoke these words, I would be nodding and tears would freely and quietly flow because yes, I know, I truly do know. May these days be kind to you.

Expand full comment
Stephen Smith's avatar

Thank you

Expand full comment
Cynthia Tews's avatar

Amen. Death really does ruin everything, doesn't it? I don't think any of us ever finish processing it, and it really is the thing that moves me to know God and seek transcendence.

Expand full comment
Stephen Smith's avatar

On this side of Easter, it seems that way!

Expand full comment
Gail Chamley's avatar

As tears puddle in my eyes the only words that come are Thank You.

Expand full comment
Stephen Smith's avatar

I know you know. I’m sorry. Easter blessings!

Expand full comment
Jeremy and Angela Amick's avatar

I was taught and trained as a boy how not to cry. 50 years of tears are stored up somewhere within me. I want to grieve the suffering of Jesus, with tears and deeper gratitude. Thank you for writing and reminding us. And we remember you and your family in prayer.

Expand full comment
Stephen Smith's avatar

Step by step. You’re more alive now than before! Less graveclothes!

Expand full comment
Hayne Steen's avatar

Giving time, time. You are showing me the way to my heart, Steve. “Ambush” is the perfect word for how grief loves to make its triumphal entry…it’s multiple sneak attacks come when THEY are ready but not when I am ready which was yesterday. Art stirs the heart and is the birthing doula for helping us to give birth to the grief being born in us. That is why I love what Juliet Benner taught me about Visio Divina…to allow my eyes to bear witness to the beauty of Peter Bruegel masterpiece Census or his very busy work called Golgatha. But the masterpiece that has helped me access my grief best Steve…is friendship with you, and a handful of other dear soul friends. You have been a grief doula for me.

Expand full comment
Stephen Smith's avatar

Goodness sakes! Well Hayne, you have somehow stumbled into your book to write now. “ The Grief Dula: How to serve those who grieve for what has died”. We need this book and no one more quailed than you! Write! Write for your soul!

Expand full comment
Sally Miller's avatar

May God hold you both in this space. You are deeply loved.

Expand full comment
Cathy Rozmiarek's avatar

I appreciate your honesty & vulnerability. Grief is a strange friend. Stops by when I least expect it or want it. Praying for you, Gwen & your family. May this Easter weekend bring some peace & comfort.

Expand full comment
Jenness Gilles's avatar

I love this, Steve. and your vulnerability and love for the soul. Grief is tricky. Youve given me permission to wait, not hurry.

Expand full comment