When The Unexpected Happens
Sunday, January 4, 2009
Welcome to the New Year! My prayer is that this year will be not only filled with blessings but also a satisfying one as you work to build a healthy, loving family. Raising children can be draining. Raising adopted children can challenge every part of you. But with just a few changes your energy can increase and your family life can become even more rewarding.
Our holidays were seriously dampened when we received the news of my brother's unexpected death. Although neither of my girls had developed a close relationship with their uncle, hearing of his death was difficult for them. Immediately I sensed the drain of energy and the blanket of sadness enfolding us. All around us it seemed like the world was celebrating but within our hearts there was a quiet, painful grief.
So, what positive steps could we take which would really make a difference?
First, we traveled to a nearby city and checked into a familiar motel. There I shared memory after memory of my big brother going back to the time we were living in Allentown PA up until the time my oldest daughter and I visited him in his apartment.
We laughed and giggled over old photos. Somehow this sacred time together drew us closer than ever. It was a healing time. A restorative time.
Second, we met with a few friends with whom we could talk and speak comfortably of our loss. How very true, that a burden shared is lighter. Over a delicious meal which we all will never forget our hearts were warmed and comforted.
Lastly, we continue to give each other grace. Life happens. There is no better time to hug our children, to reassure them of our love and commitment and to let them experience God's healing grace one day at a time. Our plans were changed. We didn't do all the things we had planned to do this Christmas but it was all good. God's grace continues to wash over our lives giving us hope and renewed energy.
So may this new year be filled with energy for you and your family. When the unexpected happens..and it will..take some positive steps. Your children will be glad you did. And so will you.
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