Navigating Grief to Hope and Healingনমুনা

Finding Treasures Along the Way

Friends mean well, but they often don’t know what to say. When that happens, seek peace in His word.

I want to share the most special gift I received as a new widow with you because I think it proves that something that costs absolutely nothing, can mean everything. 

Two of my author friends, one in Kentucky and one in Georgia, put a call out to friends and readers of my books letting them know that I’d lost my husband. They solicited short notes of support from them. They printed out each message and rolled them individually into little scrolls that were then wrapped in pretty scrapbooking paper and tied with a pretty ribbon. They placed all those colorful scrolls in a decorative treasure box and presented them to me.

I read a couple of the messages on the day I received the box. It touched me so deeply that I could only read a couple at a time.  I don’t think I read any more for about three months. Some were from people I’d never met. Others were from close friends, but every single one was so full of love. That treasure box became a lifeline. When I was hurting, I’d pull a message out and find strength. I still turn to them when I need a lift and pray to Him with gratitude in my heart. It feels as though no matter how many times I go back to those messages, there’s something new with the most perfectly timed message in it. 

I hope you receive your own version of a treasure box filled with encouraging messages. It might not be in the form of little notes scrolled beneath beautiful ribbons, but whether it’s a book of devotions, a calendar with pretty flowers, or a photo album of memories, I pray that you will find comfort and peace from those around you. As read these devotionals, write down the words that click for you. Turn to them when you need reassurance and hope.

Another unexpected treasure that has brought me much comfort is the little plaque I placed on my dresser so I’d see it first thing each morning. It reads, “Good Morning, this is God. I’ll be handling all your problems today. Your help is not needed—so, have a good day! I love you!” I’ve moved three times since then, but that dime-store plaque is still sitting on my dresser. 

When navigating grief, we are forced to fight worry, sorrow, fear, and anger. It’s not easy. But one of my favorite sayings is, “Interrupt worry with gratitude.” Isn’t that poetic? People will tell you to stop worrying, but that’s not as easy as it sounds. You have to interrupt worry to truly stop it, and gratitude is the way to do that. I’d challenge you to jot down three things you’re grateful for right now, so the next time worry attacks you, you can whip out that list and interrupt it. You’ll be grateful for that list. Believe me.

Heavenly Father, sprinkle Your joy and hope like shells along the seashore for us to collect and cherish. Your love is bigger than anything else, and we treasure it, along with the sacrifices you’ve made for us. Let us see the beauty in the gifts and favors brought forth during this difficult time. Put the right people in our paths when we are hurting, and lift us so that we confidently share our gifts. May your light shine upon us, relieve the sorrow, and highlight our way along the path you have planned. Enable us to recognize the opportunity to touch others who might benefit from the same. Stronger in Your Word each day—Amen.