MOVING THROUGH THE RIVER OF GRIEF

When tragedy first strikes, we may feel consumed by a river of grief—a river that runs so fast and deep, it feels like we are drowning in it. As the river runs its course, however, we discover that it has its own intelligence. It knows the way, even when we do not. Eventually the river transforms into a small, bright diamond and finds a home in our heart.
 

It is not that the grief becomes less; in a sense it becomes sharper and brighter, but it no longer consumes us. It becomes a powerful force that guides, teaches, and transforms. Within the depths of that small diamond we find the spark of enthusiasm that is vital for a productive life. We realize that we are still here, no matter what tragedy has befallen us. As we accept what we cannot change, we are able to release the pain. The strength of God reveals itself to us and shows us that we are not alone. We find the courage to move through tragedy into peace. We begin to live life from an even greater depth and—like the sparkle that emanates from a pure bright diamond—we become a light in this world of darkness.