Balm in Times of Grief
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I originally posted this several years ago. Recently, after the sudden death of our dear friend, Wendy, I have been looking for words that might help those who knew her. Here is my original post -
In the past month, several friends have shared the death of a loved one with me. Some have sat at the bedside of a parent as they transitioned from this life to the next. Others have told of releasing into the Creator's loving hands, their child.
At times like this, words often ring hollow. They don't seem to have the depth we hope for in order to bring comfort to the hearts we know are breaking. However, to say nothing, would be worse.
I have often responded by writing poetry. The following are poems I have written and sent to loved ones when they are grieving. I pray that their words will bring comfort to any of you who are in need of balm for your souls.
That Smile
That smile!
That is what we will remember
Bright, open
It lit up rooms
Softened hearts
And brightened the dark scary places
We feared to go
That smile!
That is what will ease the pain
Wise, caring
It held a knowing
Older than Life
And calmed the turbulence
We felt along the way
That smile!
That is what we will hold in our hearts
Magic, mystical
It still shines
Illuminating the path
And revealing the road
We, too, travel toward Home
By Linda M. Rhinehart Neas © 2005
LOOK FOR ME
Look for me!
You will see my smile
As you plant pansy faces each spring.
Look for me!
You will feel my touch
Along the shore in the summer breeze.
Look for me!
You will hear my laugh
In the crunch and rustle of autumn leaves.
Look for me!
You will hear my voice
As winter snows whisper past your face.
Look for me….
For I am here!
By Linda M. Rhinehart Neas ©1992
Prayer of Lament
Loving Parent,
You who have made all things
hear my cries to you in this
my time of great emptiness and pain.
Heal my broken heart,
fill my empty hands with work that will
bless You and all around me.
Let the memories of my loved one
fill my heart with happiness,
soothing the ache that occupies each beat.
Dearest Creator, help me to see that
my loved one is safe within Your loving arms
until we meet again. Amen!
By Linda M. Rhinehart Neas © 2014
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