Pathways Beyond

Before Dad got sick, I was a volunteer grief counselor for our local Hospice organization. I also served on their Care Team, a group of volunteers who sit with actively dying people when family and friends can't be there. The things I learned about the human spirit, and the experiences I had while working within the Hospice community changed me profoundly. Some day I'll share my stories with you, if you're interested. I'm so grateful that I had a chance to learn that death is something that can be surrounded by love, dignity, grace, and peace.

I will eventually go back to my volunteer work, but it's only been six months since my Dad's death. I'm still experiencing my own grieving process. I need some time to heal. But I WILL go back, because I can think of almost no higher calling in my life than serving those who are facing the final part of their earthly journey and the loved ones they will leave behind.

Anyway, the Hospice organization that I work with publishes a monthly newsletter called Pathways for Grief and Loss. In this month's issue there is a lovely poem that I'd like to share. The author is unknown, but as you can see, not unknowing.

We trust that beyond absence
there is a presence.

That beyond the pain
there can be healing.

That beyond the brokenness
there can be wholeness.

That beyond the hurting
there may be forgiveness.

That beyond silence
there may be a word.

That beyond the word
there may be understanding.

That through understanding
there is love.

Beautiful, isn't it? And so hopeful. All things in time. All things in time.

If you or someone you know is experiencing a season of grief and loss, whether for a loved one, a circumstance, a dream; any type of loss is a loss, please share this poem with them if you feel it's appropriate.