Special moments after loss are never easy. A birthday an anniversary, vacations, family reunions, school reunions, road trips, bingo or poker nights, car shows and races. Those are days you fondly remember, where memories were created and bonds formed. Each person has their distinct place in that memory. We remember who was at the grill, who dunked everyone in the pool, who was the joker and who was a real pain and extra playful. That’s what made the moment special. This unique spot in the life of, and memories of others can never be filled by anyone. When this person leaves it creates a huge void.
Another birthday passes, and we realized that our loved one will never call to wish us happy birthday ever again. This realization hits and hurts. For me it has now been seven years since the passing of my brother and although the masses say it gets easier. My own experience tells me something different. The waves of grief do come. Sometimes the waves are small at other times they are like a Tsunami, you are totally submersed and can barely breathe. At other times waves come out of nowhere and sweep you off your feet. You are taken off guard, feel lost and wonder if life will ever be the same again. The fact is it never will be. We must find a new normal through hope in Jesus Christ, who is our only hope in the midst of despair.
The reality of a loved ones passing may seem unachievable. Will it ever be? The question remains known. What we can hold true is that God in His infinite grace has brought so much joy from them being on this earth. Many others gained so much from knowing our loved ones, not just during special moments and on special occasions, but every day. God in his omniscience knew their length of time on earth, the impact they would have and the legacy they would leave. The sting of death is agonizing. But the joy that their lives brought is everlasting.
How blessed and privileged we were to be a part of each others lives here on earth. Let us reflect then, on the joy the life of our loved ones brought us. Let us treasure the special moments, memories these moments created and carry on the legacy left behind. After all, isn’t that what our loved ones would have wanted?