The False Bridge

People, your culture, or inside voices may try to get you to skip the hard work of grieving. They may say things  like, “Be strong!” “Don’t cry.” “Stay busy. Don’t think about it.” “You need to be strong for others, so don’t show your emotions or admit your feelings.” Such comments can lead you to try a shortcut. We refer to this as the “false bridge” because it promises to make your grieving shorter and less painful.  

The only way to get to the Neighbourhood of New Beginnings is by grieving. If you try to avoid grieving you will delay healing, and increase your pain and sense of hopelessness. But there is hope if you allow God to accompany you on this journey. Through Christ,  he will do the transforming work described by the prophet Isaiah.

to comfort all who mourn, and provide for those who grieve in Zion--
to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes,
the oil of joy instead of mourning,
and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. Isaiah 61:2-3__

God promises to replace your mourning with comfort and joy, your ashes with a crown of beauty, and your spirit of despair with a garment of praise.  

It takes courage and energy to grieve.  Don’t be afraid to mourn and grieve.