2.19.24 - Job 38:16-18
Walking with someone through grief, something that happens with every change we experience, requires presence. How might you put aside your fear of being awkward today and be present with someone?
Have you been to the springs in the depths of the sea? Have you walked on the floor of the ocean? Has anyone ever shown you the gates that guard the dark world of the dead? Have you any idea how big the world is? Answer me if you know.
We’ve heard that “everyone experiences grief differently.”
It’s true and challenging to watch others travel through loss. How can we know what to do; how to help? .
Not offer mere platitudes. I know I’ve said, “I’m sorry for your loss,” wanting to do more but not knowing how. Then, disappearing for fear of being awkward.
God asks Job questions that might seem like they lack compassion; perhaps they’re not the most comforting. But if grief has a possible parallel to the greatest depths of the sea and the darkness of the world of the dead, that causes me to pause.
Pausing on the platitudes and instead thinking about their journey.
The grieving are at the helm of the ship, not me. If I get to be a passenger in their journey, I can sit with them, accompany them, and watch for what they truly need.
Walking with someone through grief, something that happens with every change we experience, requires presence. How might you put aside your fear of being awkward today and be present with someone?
— Amanda Creek