MISS.AGE❤️

Doubt. When I went through a tough grief experience, I couldn't figure out why I was able to still have a strong hunger for God, His Will, and His ways...yet I couldn't fully enjoy God or His Word.  I felt distracted every time I prayed or read my Bible. As I prayed to God, seeking to conquer the distracting and stagnant apathy I felt, He revealed to me that my root problem wasn't distraction...and it wasn't apathy. It wasn't a lack of focus...or the inability to sit still either.  My root problem was doubt. I didn't doubt God's goodness. I knew in my heart that He IS good. Even though I have been through a lot of loss, He has always given me so much grace to help me to see His goodness every single day. I didn't doubt God's love...I know He IS love and all love comes from Him. Anyone at anytime can look around and see amazing evidences of His astounding great love. God revealed to my heart that I doubted not His ABILIT...

Are We There Yet? When children travel they love to ask, “Are we there yet?” As you navigate life after loss, you may wonder the same thing. Some frequently asked questions are: How long does grief take?  As long as it takes. Each person has their own timeline and unique way of coping with loss.  Will I always miss my loved one? Probably so. But over time, the time of deep ache will be become more bearable, and memories of the person you’re missing will become gentle reminders of the impact they made in your life. Embrace it. It’s OK to always miss them.  Why are people rushing me?  People, especially those who have never lost someone close, may make insensitive comments about how long your mourning lasts. If someone is in a hurry for you to “be yourself again,” remember they did not experience your relationship with the person you’re missing. Take as long as you need.  What about closure? Have you ever heard the saying “Closure is f...

Words. Well-meaning people often try to come up with something to say, when there are no words that can help. Saying too much can make the situation worse. Maybe you’ve heard some of these words that don’t help: ● God must have needed another angel in heaven. ● You’re young. You can marry again. ● You can always have more children. ● They’re in a better place. Insensitive remarks often come from people who have no idea what you’re feeling right now. If you’re tempted to strike back and set the record straight, it might be wise to take a deep breath and count to 10. Hopefully the well-meaning person will learn from your silence! Some words that can help are: ● I’m so sorry. ● I can’t imagine how you must be feeling. ● I’d love to bring you a meal. We can’t control others’ words. But in James 1:19, Jesus’ gives us three tips to manage our words in any situation: Be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to get angry. Miss.Age❤️

"Am I OK?" Have you ever walked into a room and turned around because you have no idea why you’re there? Grief can do that to you. Unfamiliar emotions can make you think you’re losing your mind and can make important decisions seem close to impossible. If you’re experiencing mental fogginess, take heart. The clouds will lift.  Grief-related sleeplessness, appetite changes, mood swings and mental cloudiness will diminish and eventually subside over time. The good news is, you are not going crazy.  Miss.Age❤️

"Help Yourself First" Every time you step on a plane the flight crew reminds you to put your own oxygen mask on before helping others. Grief survival is a lot like in-flight safety. The only way to stay strong and emotionally available for the people in your life is to take care of yourself first.  Rest is not a four-letter word. Technically it is, but not the bad kind. Rest doesn’t have to mean doing nothing. During this challenging season some creative ways for you to refresh might be: ● watching a funny movie or play, ● going to a favorite lake, to the beach or to the mountains, ● painting, singing or drawing, ● taking a break from 24-hour news channels, ● meeting a friend for coffee or dinner. Even if you don’t have a cruise on the calendar this month, consider doing something kind for yourself every day. Miss.Age❤️

You’re the only one who can determine how this season of grief will look. There’s no formula for the right way to grieve. As you take your first steps toward healing, remember: ● When you feel like crying, cry. ● You may feel more relief than sadness right now. That’s OK, too. ● If reminiscing and sharing stories about your loved one makes you laugh, by all means do it. ● Steer clear of people and events that leave you anxious and exhausted. Choosing your activities and company wisely can prevent unnecessary stress. ● It’s OK to say yes to the best, and no to the rest. ● There’s no need to apologise. John 11:35 paints the picture of Jesus and his reaction after the death of his dear friend, Lazarus. Jesus was not above crushing human emotion. Jesus wept. So can we. Miss.Age❤️

Your mess becomes your MESSAGE. Sharing your story to others can help someone who is trapped. Be strong and Courageous. Share your story because it may save a life. Miss.Age❤️