I had a Weekend ED Series post ready in my mind for today.
But I don’t feel like writing it anymore. I don’t feel like writing about death of the mind, when throughout these couple of weeks, all I seem to hear about left and right is real death.
Yesterday, my father told me that my grandfather (mother’s side) had been hospitalized. We’d already known his health has been deteriorating, especially after he went through surgery for an artificial lung. That was about a year ago and the doctors had said he had about 3-5 years to live.
But now, they say he is at a terminal stage. He could go anytime now.
This week, I also heard from my dear friend Eden that her father is in the hospital again. He will be going through surgery Monday.
I really did not—do not—know what to say, what to do. I cannot imagine losing my father, especially if I have already lost my mother. But this is not my story; it’s Eden’s. I feel helpless as to how I can help, but I know her sense of loss is far, far greater than mine.
I asked her how I can help in any way. She said to just pray.
A week ago I read from Monet’s blog about yet another tragedy in her family. It was just a few months ago that she almost lost her nephew; now she has lost another nephew, and might lose her sister and brother-in-law.
I don’t need to go into details; it’s almost unimaginable what kind of pain Monet must be going through.
And then of course we come to this single timeless question: Why? Why must there be such tragedy in life?
I’ve been doing a lot of praying and thinking. Well, and googling. I wanted to find some kind of comfort that I can bring to my family and friends.
I found a poem online that I really liked. I don’t know if it may resonate with others. I guess it is a sort of arrogance to think that I can bring real comfort to anyone in the face of tragedy. But still, it can’t hurt.
He Maketh No Mistakes
My Father’s way may twist and turn,
My heart may throb and ache.
But in my soul I’m glad I know,
He maketh no mistake.
My cherished plans may go astray,
My hopes may fade away,
But still I’ll trust my Lord to lead
For He doth know the way.
Tho’ night be dark and it may seem
That day will never break;
I’ll pin my faith, my all in Him.
He maketh no mistake.
There’s so much now I cannot see,
My eyesight’s far too dim;
But come what may, I’ll simply trust
And leave it all to Him.
For by and by the mist will lift
And plain it all He’ll make,
Through all the way, tho’ dark to me,
He made not one mistake.
–by A. M. Overton (1932)
(Lyrics credit: A. M. Overton was a pastor who lost his beloved wife,
and during her funeral, he wrote this incredible poem)
And another simple yet beautiful song by Sarah McLachlan called “Angel”:
Yet another song from one of my favorite Disney movies:
And that’s it for today. If you know any more songs, lyrics, poems, etc. of comfort, please share.
Hugs, prayers, and love to all.
No related posts.
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I love you. Your my adopted mom, deal?
PS, can we just agree this has been a horrible month!? Tsunami, all these people dying, protests, gas prices! We need a break!
I know! I LOL-ed when you mentioned the gas price as well. Cheap Jew will be cheap Jews! ;-p
And I have already adopted you. I’m getting the legal papers signed soon.
Tragedy and heartache is everywhere which is why for me getting busy in the kitchen is a good escape from all of that.
it’s hard to understand why some things happen..guess we gotta just believe God knows what he’s doing. prayers for your grandfather, eden’s father, and monet’s family…
thank you for telling me about these situations. I am praying!!
I’m so sorry about your grandfather.
Of course my thoughts and prayers go out to everyone, as you really can’t escape the negatives that are out there and out of our control. But on the other side of the coin, I’ve had three friends have healthy baby boys this weekend, spring is (supposedly) on it’s way–although it’s 20 degrees today–and we do have the close relationships that help us get through the rough times. The rough times help us appreciate the crap–I know this from entirely too much experience with the crap.
Hugs and positive thoughts to everyone!
*BIG HUG*
Praying for your family and your friends’ families.
Dear Sophia, my prayers go to you in these tough times. I know you’re like a sponge and you’ll take people’s suffering inside yourself, this is what makes you so empathetic and kind. I hope you will find strenth to support them and joy in the may other blessings God gives us. Sometimes, though, he hands us a tough going… don’t know why… maybe to strengthen us and teac us harder lessons? Who knows! All I know is tht tough cookies lke yourself always come out victorious!
I’m so sorry to hear about your grandfather.
I’ve been thinking about the struggles of others a lot lately too. It sucks because I feel so useless and powerless to help them. But I think what I can do is hold you, Eden, the people of Japan, and everyone else who is suffering right now in my heart. So that’s where you’ll be.
I’m sorry to hear about your grandpa- you will be in my thoughts and prayers!
when it rains, it fuckin pours. trust me i know. HUGS!!!!
I don’t understand why such bad things have to happen to such good people. It’s ashame we all have to endure so much pain in our lives. All this just makes me want to hug my family super tight and not let go. I’ve been through WAY more deaths than I should have at my age and it really stinks. Thats just life though, sometimes it’s just not that pretty.
I’m so sorry about your grandfather. It must be painful for you right now. Know you are in my thoughts and I hope you stay strong during all of this. Make sure to cry often and not hold it in. Bitch whine and complain on here all you want. We’ll listen with open arms.
That is a beautiful poem. Thanks for sharing.
I will keep your family and your friend’s family in my thoughts and prayers.
Sophia, your blog is such a comfort and pleasure to read. It’s never really about yourself, and that’s what I love about you. You are a true child of God with so much love and sincerity in your heart to spread and share with everyone lucky enough to have been a part of your life. I’m so happy and honored to have met such a wonderful person as you. With so much going on in the world today, we can’t stop everything, but a little word of comfort can go much further than you realize. I’m so sorry to hear about your Grandfather – a big hug my dear. Although I know you understand the cycle of life. It’s so sad to hear about these tragedies. All we can do is pray, pray together. Thank you for sharing this poem and videos with us. I’ll have to watch the videos on my computer later.
It’s easy to become involved in the lives (and deaths) of others as if they were your own. During this time of stress, please make sure you are taking care of your self so you can be strong for yourself and those around you.
Hugs, prayers, and love right back at you!
Oh Sophia I definitely understand how you feel. It seems like this has been a horrible month for so many people. Let’s hope that next month brings better things.
I am so sorry about your Grandpa. Thank you for sharing these with us; Monet’s story broke my heart and I am praying for her family after reading her post!
I’ve always been extremely involved with Human Rights, International and Foreign Affairs (especially Africa and the Middle East), and Human Rights. Suffering hits me at me core and breaks me apart. I can’t stand to see others suffering. Pain is a commonality; it brings us together. An unfortunate unifier, if you will. Things I like to do to feel less “helpless” are sending little gifts overseas, going food bank shopping, or getting at least 1 item per shopping grocery trip to donate. I make sure it is a GOOD, healthy food (not some cheap, sugar filled, no name crap: not that getting no name items is bad!! I just think it’s nice to give someone the best of something once in awhile), donating books etc to care centres/ shelters, letting those that are hurting know that they ARE NOT FORGOTTEN and alone (that I am thinking of them), staying on top of current affairs and not turning a blind eye when it seems so far away and hard to see. One thing that really makes me feel good, gets some frustration out, and helps others is cooking/baking, and then donating it or bringing it to someone. I often leave towels in the alleys where homeless people sleep, and often leave muffins or something. It’s not much, and I wish I could do more. Feeling helpless is the worst feeling, and also takes away from the true focus – the other person.
If it is someone I know, then I try to help out anyway I can. Picking up grocery’s, spending time with them, and letting them know that I am here to support them no matter what. I have to put my faith in GOD, and trust that HE knows what He is doing.
I feel horrible for Janetha, Eden, Monet, You and so many beautiful people struggling right now! I am praying for all of you, and truly hope everything works out and you have the strength to get through this!
I was having a horrible day yesterday, and stumbled upon this on TV (I believe there was a reason I happened to turn this channel on- I never watch it, because I NEEDED to hear this message!). It helped to know that if God wants something to happen, then it is right for me, and it will happen. It reminded me I need to stop trying to fix things on my own, and turn to God first. I’d appreciate it if you told me what you thought of it (if you watch). It’s about the Value of Spending Time with God.
http://jmmdownloads.org.edgesuite.net/podcast/tv/march/915_NW.mp4?siteid=download
http://www.joycemeyer.org/ourministries/broadcast/
xoxo
Barbara
If the above link doesn’t work, go here and click on the 03/27/2011 show at the bottom entitled “The Value of Spending Time with God”. When it loads, you need to click on the VIDEO link/button on the lower right hand side of the video.
http://www.joycemeyer.org/ourministries/broadcast/
I have to add, this isn’t something I ever listen to. I came across it by “accident” yesterday, and I felt that I NEEDED to hear this message. It spoke to me!
Barbara
I still love this for almost anything: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nQtdgZWBmys&feature=player_embedded#at=33 So sorry Eden, for all the heartache.
You are a senstive and amazing person, I will keep my fingers crossed for all those folks you mentioned. Tragedies like those make me afraid to believe in God
I’m so sorry to hear about both your grandfather and Eden’s father. Keeping both of you and your families in my prayers right now.
I really love the song “To Where You Are” by Josh Groban. It’s absolutely beautiful- gives me chills.
i’m sorry to hear that sophia…. you’ll be in my thoughts. also, i agree lion king is one of the best.
I’m so sorry to here about your grandfather! My own granddad has died almost exactly one year ago, and the other I didn’t happen to get to know at all.
I’m thinking of Eden and her dad a lot these days … I don’t know if she knows, because I don’t comment every of her blog posts, but I do. I’ll include you and your grandfather in my prayers.
I love that poem. It’s a good reminder that the Lord really is aware of each of us and that we must experience the sorrow to know the joy in life. I’m sorry to hear about your grandpa. You’ll always have me to lean on.
Take care of Eden for us!
Thank you so much for sharing this beautiful poem and videos with us. I’m so sorry to hear about your grandpa.
I have been praying for Eden too. You are a sweet friend for posting this Sophia. It warms my heart that kind people like you exist.
i love you more
Your post brought tears to my eyes. You have a wonderful way with words, and I’m sending good thoughts to all!!!
In my mind, I’m squeezing your hand right now so we can face your troubles together. But in reality, you have who you need most right there with you. That poem is a great one and I pray that whatever may happen, that He will bring you comfort and you will feel his love. My thoughts are with your friends as well. hugs
ohhh Sophia~hang in there!! *sigh* life IS difficult. But the great thing is that God is always on our side! We just need to choose to LET Him be on our side…that’s a beautiful poem. <3 these are some of my fave songs! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X6yDFn3OAFo&feature=related -It is well with my soul- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3p2yqWFlg60-healing is in your hands- stay strong and hang on to Him!! Love ya sis~ I'll be praying 4u and your fam
oh this is another beautiful one
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vcezx5Rl7sA -Captivate us-
How about “God will make a way” by Don Moen or “In His time” or “The Lord My Shepherd’? These are old christian song but i like it alot..
What a beautiful post. I am so sorry to hear about your grandfather, and my heart goes out to all of you amazingly strong, and wonderful women who are are dealing with loss, illness, and other tragedy. When family is hurt, sick, etc., there is really no way to explain how it feels. Dealing with my mom’s MS, which has left her bedridden, is the hardest thing I have ever had to do and continue to do. I can’t talk about it without bringing myself to tears. Even with that, I can’t imagine what Eden must be going through having lost her mom and now her dad being ill. I only hope and pray that things will get better for her and that God will help her and her dad through this.
So sorry to hear about your grandfather… he’ll be in my prayers. I’ll send one up for you, your family, and friends too.
This has been one rough month with everything going on in the world right now. It seems so intensified lately. I can’t even go there…
Lovelovelove Sarah McLaughlin. She’s my MOST FAVORITE female artist. Ever. Every song of hers takes me to a time in my life. That song always gets me. Every time.
Hugs,
Jill
Hugs,
Jill
Ooops. Forgot that I already signed my name
Yes, warm thoughts and prayers help so much. Your friend is fortunate to have your support.
Sending huge hugs your way Sophia – and to Eden too – life is unfair, that’s for sure. Loved the poem at the end.
I’ll be sending good thoughts your way and your friend’s ways. I’m sorry to hear about all this.
Those are some truly beautiful songs, words and poems. I actually read this post yesterday when things were particularly bleak, and I can’t emphasise enough how much it helped me. The song from The Lion King helped release tears that wouldn’t come on Monday, despite an overwhelming urge to cry.
My Dad’s condition has improved again today: with stroke patients, getting them medical attention quickly makes a huge difference to the amount of damage done…thank goodness we didn’t wait for an ambulance and drove with our car.
I really hope Eden’s Dad pulls through too: I’m keeping her, and you in my thoughts.
Thanks a million for thinking of me too.
xxx
wow, i’m way behind on my reading,
so many good thoughts i need to send out!! {{{hugs}}}
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