Dealing with Difficult times, Disappointments, and Death
In light of the difficult times that we are feeling and expressing in West Kelowna, I hope to give some practical guidelines when it comes to grief...
What is Grief?
Grief is a natural response to loss. EVERYONE grieves differently... There is no wrong way to grief. It’s the emotional suffering you feel when something or someone you love is taken away. You may associate grief with the death of a loved one – and this type of loss does often cause the most intense grief. But any loss can cause grief, including:
|
|
Stages of Grief
All of us may go through all or some of the natural stages to grief. It is important to know the stages because it helps you to associate that there is a healing process in your lost.
Shock – “this could have not happened”
Anger – “why is this happening?”
Blame – “whose fault is this?”
Depression – “I am too sad to do anything.”
Acceptance – “I am at peace” (This does not mean that you condone or agree, but you have accepted reality.
How to deal with grief?
Get support – surround yourself with people that you trust... people who you can talk to. Remember, don’t grief ALONE. You can turn to family and friends, a support group at your school or community center, counsellors, and/or your faith.
Take care of yourself – eat properly, exercise, and get TONS of rest.
Take it easy – don’t make major decisions as the grief process may interfere with judgment
How to find peace?
We can find comfort knowing that God is in control even though we feel that we aren’t – John 14:1-6
God gives us comfort so that we can comfort those in times of difficulty – 2 Corinthians 1:3-8
Finding hope in God gives a deep peace that goes beyond our questions, frustrations, anger, and understanding – Philippians 4:6-7
God is with us... to give rest, peace, direction, hope, strength... and is for us! – Psalms 23
I hope this helps...
With ya friends!