Memorials
As a chaplain, I have walked into hospital rooms with the dying, their families and friends. I have borne witness to their suffering and given them space to voice the pain in their hearts. I am called to accompany those who are experiencing the worst moments of their lives in the time of loss.
Every living thing has a meeting with End-of-Life. The longer we live, the more we will lose those that we love. There is no avoiding the pain of loss, unbearable as it may seem.
soon to breathe his last.
Four grateful sons
standing helpless.
His wife weeping,
not knowing how to go on
though she must.
Sorrow must be heard.
Pain must be honored.
Grief is just love in another form.
To never grieve is to never love,
and who wants to give that up?
It is natural that friends and people you know are afraid to face the pain of your loss. Some will try to console, saying things like:
- everything will be OK
- things will get better
- time heals all wounds
- just get over it
The truth is that as long you love someone you have lost, you will still grieve. We learn to survive the pain of loss. This takes strength and courage, which we get from those who love us.
At the time of loss, tell those who offer to help, to simply hold you in their hearts. Don't be afraid to ask for a hug. We all need them.
I charge $80/hour for my time.