Grief is the dominate emotion of our lives. It is a natural part of our human experience but, as all emotions, needs expression. Its like a cleansing breath, catching our breath, a refreshing pause. We simply need to tell others our story as a part of a community of remembrance and we help heal each other.
This truth became especially evident during my work as Spiritual Director on a Walk to Emmaus. The experience of the Walk is already very structured, and carefully so, in order for the participants to experience refreshment spiritually. It works; a great experience. This particular walk I shared a grief experience during, and part of, a morning devotional. I was approached by several individuals who asked for a memorial service. Since adding the service was not part of Emmaus, we planned one during our break time. I was amazed to see, not two or three, but the majority of the participants coming to the memorial. We simply read scripture, each sharing their memory and lighting a candle. Tears flowed abundantly and their spirits were revived. I may do it every walk. It worked and helped enormously in their experience.
Take a moment, plan it, and go somewhere special and remember. Take a friend and tell your story, maybe light a candle and say a prayer. "Companion your grief" as Alan Wolfelt is so famous for teaching.
Chaplain Jimmy Braswell
