Grief is a lonely road, even when surrounded by well-meaning family and friends. The loss of a spouse shatters life, leaving one to search for anything that might bring stability. In 2020, HHH and I lost our better halves. Throughout the quarantine, funeral homes and support groups shuttered their doors while grief was put on hold. Those were hard days. This is one reason we feel strongly about helping others with our new Griefshare group.
There’s something unique about sitting in a room with people sharing the pain of loss. No explanations are needed. In everyday life, grief often makes others uncomfortable. They don’t know what to say, or worse, they say something unhelpful, even if well-intended. In a GriefShare group, no one tells you to “move on” or “be strong.” Instead, there’s an understanding as we each reflect the same sorrow. Plenty of hugs can be found right next to the Kleenex boxes. Tears are welcome.
Isolation through grief can make us feel like no one else could understand the depth of our pain. Listening to stories told with raw honesty, tears, and breakthroughs—it becomes apparent that grief is different for everyone even though the emotions are strikingly similar. No matter the loss, healing from grief follows a similar path.
Our little group doesn’t just focus on venting emotions; it’s a faith-centered journey that gently guides us toward healing. Each week, a lesson based on biblical principles provides reassurance that mourning is not a sign of weakness, but part of the process God designed for healing. Scriptures that once felt distant are suddenly becoming personal lifelines.
Monday, the lesson focused on Hope and Resilience. For years, hope and a wish were the same in my mind. Through the class, I learned hope is really a confidence in God’s plans for the future. Now, that’s something that I can use in my life. Real Hope, not just a bunch of wishes.
Prayer isn’t a ritual but a source of strength and comfort. Not memorized words, real conversations with God. The friendships formed within our group are becoming a lifeline. We lean on each other in ways no one else could understand—asking about difficult days, celebrating small victories, and reminding each other that grief doesn’t require us to stop living.
Monday, one of the members of our group told us they’ll be heading out on their very first adventure since becoming a widower over two years ago. With a granddaughter’s wedding brightening life, it’s great to see one of our own striking out to enjoy some happiness with friends and family. And, life goes on.
One of the most beautiful things about GriefShare is that it offers a space free of judgment. Whether you’re angry at God, feeling numb, or overwhelmed with regret, there’s no “right” way to grieve. Come as you are while healing progresses at the right speed.
The meetings have become a refuge for HHH and me. There, we speak freely about personal experiences with renewed resilience and hope.
Grief never fully disappears but evolves. What once felt like an unbearable weight has slowly become something we’ve learned to carry. GriefShare has shown us that healing doesn’t mean forgetting; it means finding ways to move forward toward new life.
If you’re grieving and feeling lost, I encourage you to seek out a support group. Whether it’s GriefShare or another grief ministry, know that you don’t have to do this alone. Comfort comes when walking together while bearing each other’s burdens. Even in the darkest valley, hope and resilience will guide you through.
