My heart hurts. So much sorrow and sadness everywhere I turn. Whatever you are facing today, you are not alone. I see you, my friend. But most importantly, God sees you. Come to Him, all you who are weary and burdened, and He will give you rest. —Matthew 11:28. As this world becomes more dark and dim, turn to Him.

Grief has hit me hard these last few weeks. Maybe it’s because reality has finally settled in. Life still goes on despite my daddy being here. Gosh, that’s hard to say. Some days I experience a multitude of emotions and I cry at the drop of the hat, but life doesn’t stop for me.

During the first few months after Dad received his transplant in 2014, he began having some issues with medicines and fluid. He was in the hospital for several weeks. We celebrated Thanksgiving that year in a hospital room by ordering a lavish meal from the cafeteria. It seemed like such an inconvenience; the meal and the environment. But as I walked by the open hospital rooms full of patients suffering from minor to life threatening conditions, Thanksgiving became more to me. More than just a good meal. More than shopping and great deals. It became more about giving thanks in the moment. For everything, good or bad, God has given and still continues to give us so much.

This journey is hard and everyday is a battle. I can either succumb to the darkness that grief brings, or I can see the light. When bitterness, anger, and self-pity try to creep in, I remind myself of one of my favorite verses: “Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” Philippians 4:8. When I see all of the things worthy of praise, grief does not win.

The holidays are something that I have dreaded. I know they will never be the same without my daddy.  But as I approach Thanksgiving with a broken heart, I am reminded of God’s promise. His promise and His presence  lifts me up and fills my heart with gratitude. Faithful He has been to me and faithful He will continue to be. Greater joy is ahead, my friend. Be thankful.

“So be truly glad.There is wonderful joy ahead, even though you must endure many trials for a little while. 1 Peter 1:6”

Artwork by: Andrea Howey