A year ago today I announced my website was coming soon. It wasn’t up and running yet, but I was confident enough to proclaim it was on the way. That. Is. NUTS! You know I really had no idea what I was doing, right? But I had a crazy idea on my heart. The details were not there, but the general concept was all I could think about. Each night I went to bed thinking about it. I woke up every morning still thinking about it. Sometimes I even woke up in the middle of the night with ideas. I told all of my friends what I thought I was going to do. They were supportive, but I’m quite sure they maybe thought it was a phase of grief. I’m also pretty sure I thought that at times. I still wonder it occasionally.
This morning when I saw the Facebook “On This Day” memory, it shocked me. I was in awe. I realized how far God has carried me, and I was a little proud of myself because I’ve come along way in my grief. A crazy idea has so far developed into not only an outlet for my heart, but I sense it’s becoming an actual community of people who understand one another. I’ve watched you comment with extra grace. I’ve noticed how you’ve cared for one another. You’re “strangers” who feel like understanding friends to not only me, but to one another. Are you guys feeling that too? Or is it just me?
Today has taught me the importance of pausing every now and then to look back, not on our loss, but on our gains. I know often it feels like progress is slow. We still cry, we still feel lonely sometimes, and we’re still grieving. But would you look at how far you’ve come? It’s so good to remind ourselves of the things we’ve managed to live through.
Maybe some of you are brand-new with your grief. Take note of every detail you accomplish. Maybe today it’s just eating a meal or showering. But pay attention because there will be evidence that you’re indeed doing great. (Except for when you’re not – seems that’s just part of it).
If you’re farther along in your grief, there are likely more progress moments on your timeline. Take a minute and reflect on those. You’ve done it! You’re still doing it! Thank God for carrying you through and keep trudging ahead. There are new things you’ll conquer this month. You’re doing it! I’m proud of you. I’m proud of all of us. We are going to make it….with some extra grace required, of course.
Extra grace,
Jodi
“I was a little proud of myself because I’ve come along way in my grief.” Well I’m a lot proud of you. Well done! And by the way, a lot more useful than Tee Shirts, wouldn’t you say?
Grace and Peace, Chad
last year was awful,losing my son in law and husband! was doing ok until yesterday when my eldest daughter passed away! back to square one!
I am so sorry for your losses . There are no word for what you must be enduring. God bless you.
hugs and prayers to you!!
Jodi not only have you come a long way bit ypu habe helped others. Bless you for sharing with others that it’s ok to accept and give extra grace. On some days it is required!❤️ Thanks for all you have shared this past year.
I don’t even know where to begin. Your blog was shared with me through a friend who saw it and was thinking of me. I have felt utterly alone. I am a young widow and have dealt with a lot of tragedy in my 29 years but nothing compares to losing your soulmate – your world. When I started reading your blog, I suddenly felt an “AMEN” and knew that I wasn’t crazy. Every single day is an inner battle. Do I truly let ‘Me’ out today or should I pretend for everyone else? I wish that outsiders could grasp that this unwarranted rollercoaster ride does not come with a steering manual.