Writing about grief brings the honor of listening to others’ stories of loss. In those stories, I hear pain but also tributes of love. Parents grieving for a daughter, 47 years later. A husband missing his beloved wife for 20 years. A couple grieving for a child as intensely now as when he died a year ago. People move on with their lives but carry grief and love with them. And that’s understandable. I appreciate the company as this week marks eleven years since our son was stillborn.
In memory of our son, Zachariah, I wrote a poem: a small window into grief, written with imperfect words, but unwavering love.
Nancy, This is a powerful, sensitive spilling of emotion with brevity yet with compassion. I think God truly wants us to remember those times of grief, to remember what those persons now gone gave us; then to give what we have been freely given to others in need. May my hug to you reach you through this email.
Thank you, Jane. Great to hear from you!
I liked your poem – as it reveals the secret places of your heart. I thought about how fragile like is as I watched my grandson come into the world with great difficulty. I remembered the words your Pastor said about Jesus handing down Zachariah and immediately taking him back up to Heaven to be with Him……as Ethan was born with the cord around his little neck and his head stuck in a difficult position requiring assistance and intervention….that we are not in charge of the outcomes….Zachariah’s birthday will continue to hold special meaning as God has given Ethan the same special day. Heaven holds many dear precious treasures for the Berns family and I thank you for sharing your heart………Aunt Christi