The loss of a child is an unimaginable tragedy that alters the course of our lives, restricting time and reshaping our very existence. After experiencing such profound grief, insignificant choices, such as choosing beef or chicken for dinner, wearing heels or ballet flats, or deciding on red or blue, can serve as profound reminders of the routines that persist in our daily lives. Even as our hearts bear the weight of immeasurable loss, these decisions remain subtle echoes of the world we once knew.
But amid the constant backdrop of choices, certain truths become abundantly clear. The three words "I love you" remain an unchanging and resounding truth, a feeling worth expressing without reservation. Gratitude, too, finds its rightful place, and there is no hesitation in telling friends, "Thank you for being here." These expressions of love and appreciation offer comfort in a world that sometimes seems heartless and indifferent.
The world outside may be changing rapidly, but as you drive around the block, you may slow down and appreciate the subtle beauty that often goes unnoticed in the hustle and bustle of life. Anger, once a fierce companion, now disappears quickly, much like the minute hand of a clock ticking from one moment to the next. Instead, embracing gentleness, grace, and compassion is a conscious choice. A simple, kind word or a small act of kindness is cherished, as it can brighten someone's day and offer a lifeline of hope and connection.
The art of bidding farewell becomes an embodiment of love and warmth. Goodbyes are marked by comforting hugs and genuine, balanced smiles, symbolizing the importance of human connections and shared moments. Even in the chaos of a busy highway, a willingness to yield to others exemplifies a broader philosophy of consideration and a preference for harmony over haste.
There is a profound shift in perspective. The details of life, the minor irritations, and the daily worries all fade into insignificance when compared to the life-altering loss of a loved one. When life is no longer in balance, everything loses meaning.
This sentiment is consistent with the wisdom found in Colossians 3:12-14, which encourages embracing a new life of love and choosing virtues like mercy, kindness, humility, and forgiveness as essential for the journey. Love, as the unifying thread, holds it all together, a reminder never to live without it.
