Saturday, February 11, 2012

With Hope


We can cry with hope
We can say goodbye with hope
Because we know our goodbye is not the end
We can grieve with hope
Because we believe with hope
There's a place where we'll see your face again...
                                                      
                                                  {Steven Curtis Chapman "With Hope"}



 Death. Loss. Grief.

The finality of these three words strikes so much pain in me right now. They are words that I cannot escape. It is so difficult to face these circumstances when your life is forever changed by losing someone you love so much. Someone who was such a big part of your heart... Someone who is just irreplaceable.

We lost my grandfather this afternoon... I honestly cannot even believe that I'm writing these words, as I'm sitting here wiping the tears from my eyes and trying to stifle this excruciating pain in my heart. Mostly, my heart aches for my grandmother. I cannot even begin to imagine the loss that she has suffered. 
Soul mate. Father to her five children, one of whom he joined in Heaven today. Husband for over 60 years.

I know that life will go on for everyone... But the magnitude of this loss will be felt in my heart for a very long time. I feel so blessed to have had the privilege of calling him "Paw-Paw," and I am so proud to be able to help celebrate his life with my family.


Thank you for your outpouring of love, and all of the wonderful words you have said about his life.

...But it's now that I feel Your grace fall like rain
From every fingertip, washing away my pain.

11 comments:

Katie @ minivan diva said...

My heart feels so heavy for you. I am praying for you and your family to feel God's comfort today. I'm sorry for your loss. : (

Chaos and Coffee said...

Words are never enough in times like this, but prayers go out to you & your family.

Kristen said...

I'm SO sorry for your loss, Emily. Praying for you and your family!

Unknown said...

I am so sorry for your loss.I recently lost my father at 63 and I have learned one thing - The pain never lessens, but over time, you just get more and more used to it.
Hugs to you and yours!

Katiern827 said...

I'm so sorry for your loss Emily. That picture of the 2 of you is priceless! Sending prayers your way during this difficult time.

Natalie said...

I am sorry to hear about your loss. I know it's never easy...I lost my grandfather back in 2007 right before I got married. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers!

Roz said...

Emi,
I am praying for you and the family. Can't help but think that Ivan is in heaven cheersing Gramps with a beer. Love you.

Lauren said...

I am so sorry for your family's loss! And yet so happy that it is just temporary that you all be apart and that the good Lord has brought him home.

I don't even want to imagine myself in your grandmother's place, I agree it is probably hardest on her of anyone. Prayers for you and your family!

Anonymous said...

Em, I'm so sorry for your family. Prayers of peace…

Kate @ craftwhatever said...

My heart aches for you and your family. I truly can't imagine...
Love and prayers to you. May you all get stronger everyday.

Pieced Pastimes said...

Sending prayers for Gods healing hands during this difficult time.