Lent: Day 25

“Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.” – Matthew 5: 4

Several years ago as many FUMC friends recall, my happy, busy life hit several walls. In June, my father died. In February, my young daughter and I were in an accident in which the other driver was killed. In March, my husband died. And in July, my mother died. While wrestling with three estates and a lawsuit, I sleepwalked the path of my life, an only child essentially alone with an only child. Or was I?

My heart and mind stood still. In my high functioning stupor, I had little short-term memory. Decisions made at the morning meeting were a mystery to me by afternoon. The mind protects itself.

But, as I traversed this rocky road, the hand of God manifested itself. Music was never more beautiful, and its movement created freedom, as long as it lasted. Nature seemed more intense – colors brighter, tiny insects more amazing, sunsets more breathtaking, the dancing red fox an important sign – this hyper vigilance was probably a symptom of post traumatic stress disorder.

Subtle gestures of caring were everywhere: a pastor friend who gave me space and set many acts in motion, funeral home charges far too low, legal services with no bill, callers to just check, countless walks with my informal counselor, dinners with an option to vent, daughter’s teachers with safety nets at a distance, colleagues picking up the slack, friends for coffee, pansies left at the door, spontaneous visits, and cards – bushel baskets of cards, each one devoured and kept.

Many years have passed, but I still know: Blessed are those who mourn – in the company of Christian friends – for they will be comforted. Belatedly, thank you friends.

Prayer: Dear God, thank you for the support of church friends in times of trouble. Please help me to recognize and support others in their times of need. Amen.