There has been quite a bit of buzz around the Internet lately about the death of blogs. This discussion is fueled in part by the recent departure of some high profile bloggers from the blogosphere. The irony of this discussion, of course, is that much of it is occurring on blogs.
Supporting loved ones in times of grief
Everyone has had a friend or loved one go through a time of grief. Sooner or later tragedy, pain and loss strike each person and as a result of this we all have witnessed a friend or loved one grieving some loss.
How we interact with others in grief can determine whether we bless or damage that person. The worst insults a grieving person receives are often from a well-meaning friend or loved one. Some of you know what I mean all too well.
Unfortunately, most of us feel poorly equipped to help someone who is grieving a loss. This article will provide some simple guidelines to help readers better understand the grief process and how to be a positive support and encouragement to your friend or loved one during grief. We will explore the nature and causes of grief, grief response and stages, supporting those in grief, and some helpful hints for being a positive support to those in grief.
Seasons change
Fall is in the air where I live. The days are still warm but the nights are cooling and leaves are beginning to change and drop from the trees. The winds of change are beginning to blow. I debated for many years as to my favorite season. Living in the northeast we experience four fully distinct seasons – each with enjoyable and not-so-enjoyable parts. I used to vacillate between autumn and spring as my two favorite seasons but I have finally decided that I like autumn best of all. Spring brings the promise of green and new life – but it also brings the promise of bugs and allergies… Ugh!
My waking thoughts this morning centered around a parallel between changing seasons in nature and in life. I’m not sure whether the Spirit was moving or if I ate too much of my homemade salsa sauce last night. (OK, we won’t go there. Some things are better left alone!) In any event, I awoke to thoughts of seasons and rhythms in life.
