With her permission, here's what she shared:
Lately as I have been able to get out more, several people have commented to me how "strong" they think I am.
Each time I hear that word it stings a bit. It just doesn't seem like the right word to apply to me and to this time in my life. A simple word can have so much impact- can comfort or wound. So, I started to really think about it and this is what I came up with....
Lori is praying for you---that you'll never have to be this "strong." Won't you please pray for her? And also pray for widows on our Memorial Wall this month as they come upon the anniversary of their husband's death.
P.S. If you'd like to join Lifeboat, I'll be able to add you to the group next Tuesday. Send me--Ferree Hardy-- a friend request on Facebook and be sure to send me a private message with the word "Lifeboat." ♥ ferree
Each time I hear that word it stings a bit. It just doesn't seem like the right word to apply to me and to this time in my life. A simple word can have so much impact- can comfort or wound. So, I started to really think about it and this is what I came up with....
- S- Sad beyond all comprehension and belief
- T- Terrified of this life without my beloved husband
- R- Resentful of other couples I see growing old together
- O- Open wounded heart, crying and flowing with endless tears
- N- Never again will be the same, no longer me
- G- Grief so deep I feel I will never come up out of it- yet the Lord's strength carries me thru
Lori is praying for you---that you'll never have to be this "strong." Won't you please pray for her? And also pray for widows on our Memorial Wall this month as they come upon the anniversary of their husband's death.
P.S. If you'd like to join Lifeboat, I'll be able to add you to the group next Tuesday. Send me--Ferree Hardy-- a friend request on Facebook and be sure to send me a private message with the word "Lifeboat." ♥ ferree
I remember people telling me I was so "strong". I didn't have the insight that this young lady had. I said, "Well, what else can I do? I have to keep going on and living." That didn't mean I was strong. It always puzzled me what else they would have expected me to do. I love Lori's post and would like to be able to print it out to use from time to time and maybe also post it on my blog. Could you ask her for her permission? I am no longer on lifeboat, but I am a member of "Going Ashore." I thought I saw her post that in that group, but I must be mistaken. Thanks for sharing!
ReplyDeleteWonderful. Even after Going Ashore, these times of being so "strong" continue... Thank you for continuing to share, and prayers for the Lifeboats... Rhonda
ReplyDeleteSo good to hear from you both, Rhonda and Kathy, I know Lori will be encouraged that her words touched you. And Kathy, I'll contact Lori and make sure the two of you can confer, probably on Facebook.
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing this post. Lori, you put so beautifully in words what so many of us have experienced.
ReplyDeleteI actually had an individual say to me "well, if doesn't kill you it will make you stronger" What an off-time comment. Our society focuses too much on self-reliant - self-confidence - got it all together or holding up so well. It seems if we show tears or appear needy as a sign of weakness. Well if that's the case, then I am very weak and needy and my total dependence is now upon my Father my maker and now as a new relationship - my husband. His strength is perfect when my strength is gone.
ReplyDeleteAmen, Anonymous! You are right on! Thanks for that insight!
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