HELP WANTED: Why Grievers Need Faithful Friends

We all know how it is-you move, you lose an address or phone number, you lose touch. 

But sometimes friendships end more abruptly-not because lives drifted apart but because one person became so uncomfortable she chose to walk the other way.

That’s what happens so often the other side of child loss.  Friends disappear because loss makes them profoundly uncomfortable.  

I get it-I’m a walking reminder that if it happened to me, it can happen to you.  

You don’t know what to say when the tears flow.  You feel helpless in the face of my helplessness.  You are afraid my questions might weaken your faith.

And after months of avoiding me you feel guilty.  

But may I tell you something?  I still need you.  

It doesn’t matter if you have the perfect words.  Your presence is what lifts my spirits.  

I won’t chastise you for your absence.

Author: Melanie

I am a shepherd, wife and mother of four amazing children, three that walk the earth with me and one who lives with Jesus. This is a record of my grief journey and a look into the life I didn't choose. If you are interested in joining a community of bereaved parents leaning on the promises of God in Christ, please like the public Facebook page, "Heartache and Hope: Life After Losing a Child" and join the conversation. View all posts by Melanie