I got a certificate!

I haven’t received many awards in my life.
As you know, our house is full of trophies, mainly football, but hardly any belong to me.
So, this week, I was thrilled to receive a certificate. Especially as I didn’t know it was coming.

I’ve spent four afternoons on Zoom over the past few weeks.
There were ten of us all together.
All leaders in The Salvation Army.
All living in different parts of the country.
All meeting for training on grief.

The title of the course was Faith, Grief and Covid-19. It was to be a conversation, as much as training. 

I signed up for it, because, over the past month or so, I’d recognised grief within myself.
I wanted to know how to deal with it, so I could hopefully help others who are grieving too.

One thing we realised, quite early on, is that we are all grieving.
Covid-19 has taken so much from us:
Loved ones, friendships, and the way we live our lives.
We’ve faced separation, isolation and loneliness of one kind or another.

This morning, as I woke again, with feelings of restlessness and unease, I felt I wanted to reach out. 
To acknowledge that life is, and has been tough.
Perhaps we can pause together in that place.

Anniversaries are looming for all of us.
This time last year we were preparing to lead a family dedication. We were in a hotel, watching with disbelief as borders were closing, and we wondered if we would need to abandon it all and go home.

We didn’t, and the day remains our last family day, when it was wonderful to be together. But two days later we were in isolation and Chris was ill with covid.

So today, I just want us to pause and connect with each other. Maybe cry a bit, if that is required. Tears are good!

The time for rainbows and Major Tom, and paddling pools are on the way.
But today?
Today I’m resting in the Father’s embrace, and looking for the one who has promised never to leave me or forsake me.

With love xx




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