Joni Earickson Tada once said that Grief is like a permanent disability that one needs to adapt to as part of their healing process

# Embracing the Journey of Grief: Insights from Joni Eareckson Tada

And we boast in the hope of the glory of God. Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.Romans 5

Grief is a universal experience, and yet it often feels profoundly isolating. When we think of loss, we can feel an array of emotions that can be overwhelming and confusing. Joni Eareckson Tada, a remarkable woman who has faced life's challenges with courage and grace, describes grief as a "permanent disability" that we must learn and adapt to on our journey. This analogy resonates deeply, as it emphasizes that grief is not something we can simply overcome. Rather, it is a complex emotional process that requires time, understanding, and support.

Living with quadriplegia, Joni has a unique perspective on the notion of disability. She understands that for many, including herself, adapting to a new reality is a continuous journey filled with highs and lows. Grief, in many ways, mirrors this experience. The loss of a loved one, a relationship, or even a way of life can feel like a significant disability that alters how we engage with the world.

The journey of grief is not linear; it often involves navigating through various stages and experiencing emotions that can be difficult to articulate. Just as someone with a physical disability learns to adapt to their new circumstances, those who are grieving must also develop new ways to cope with their loss. This might involve seeking support from others, finding new routines, or even embracing spirituality. Each person's journey will look different, and that variability underscores the importance of patience and kindness—both towards ourselves and others.

As we foster our own understanding of grief, it is vital to remember that it is okay to feel vulnerable. Vulnerability allows us to connect with others who may be going through similar experiences, providing a space for empathy and support. Sharing our stories and emotions can help mitigate the feelings of isolation that often accompany grief. In Joni's words, it is through our struggles that we can find resilience, allowing us to adapt and even grow in the face of profound sorrow.

In conclusion, embracing the journey of grief may not be easy, but it is an essential part of healing. Just as we would learn to navigate life with a disability, we can learn to navigate our grief—acknowledging its permanence while shaping our responses to it. Let us remember that it is possible to carry that grief alongside finding joy, connection, and purpose. As we walk this path, let's extend grace and support to ourselves and each other, honoring the transformative power that our experiences can bring.

If you are struggling with grief and seeking resources or support, please reach out to Griefshare.org and find a inperson or virtual group nearest you. Remember, you are not alone on this journey.

When sudden death turns our world upside down

Finding Light in the Darkness: A Journey of Healing

Once upon a time, in a small town filled with friendly faces and familiar places, there lived a woman named Sarah. She was known for her bright smile and the infectious laughter that often filled the air around her. But one fateful day, the winds of her life shifted dramatically when she lost her husband, Mark, to a sudden heart attack while he was at work. In an instant, her world turned upside down, and the life she had known slipped through her fingers like grains of sand.

In the days that followed, Sarah found herself wandering through a fog, grappling with an overwhelming sense of disbelief and loss. Mornings became the hardest, as memories flooded her mind. The home that once echoed with their shared joys now felt unbearably silent. In her pain, she sought answers, often staring up at the heavens, asking, "Why?" But silence greeted her, leaving her heart heavy with questions and longing.

Despite the turmoil swirling within her, Sarah remained determined to seek solace. It began with her attending church every Sunday—a ritual that had once brought her joy. The sacred space echoed with familiar hymns and the soft murmurs of prayer, but now, it served as both a refuge and a reminder of what she had lost. Though her heart felt shattered, each service offered little glimmers of hope, inviting her to believe in a love that transcended even the deepest sorrows.

In her search for healing, Sarah also turned to her therapist, a kind Christian woman named Laura, who gently guided her through the maze of grief. Their conversations often started with tears, but they gradually shifted towards the power of hope and resilience. Laura encouraged Sarah to embrace her pain rather than hide from it. Through heartfelt discussions, they explored the beauty of cherished memories while allowing the heaviness of loss to rest alongside moments of gratitude. Laura would often say, “In our brokenness, we find God’s grace shining through.”

Encouraged by Laura's support, Sarah began to open her heart to her pastor, Mark’s closest friend, Pastor James. Together, they shared conversations that delved into faith, grief, and the promise of renewal. Pastor James helped Sarah reinterpret her questions, guiding her to seek understanding in the experiences of others who had walked similar paths. He reminded her of the verses in the Bible that spoke of God’s presence in times of trouble, allowing her to find a new perspective—a hope that did not erase her sorrow but coexisted with it.

As time passed, Sarah leaned more on her close circle of girlfriends, who, recognizing her struggle, rallied around her. With endless cups of tea, late-night talks, and a few laughter-filled road trips, they reminded her of the warmth of friendship. They shared stories, both bittersweet and uplifting, fostering a sense of community that helped mend Sarah’s fractured heart. One particular evening, as they gathered for dinner, Sarah felt a spark of joy she hadn’t experienced in months. It was in these moments that she began to remember not just what she had lost, but also the love and support that surrounded her.

Through her journey, Sarah learned that healing isn't a linear path—it's filled with beautiful highs, devastating lows, and unexpected moments of light. She still had questions, but rather than seeking immediate answers, she found solace in the process of discovery. With every church service, every session with Laura, every chat with Pastor James, and every laughter shared with her friends, she was slowly piecing together a new sense of self.

And then came a day when, amidst the warmth of her community and the gentle embrace of faith, she sensed the stirring of hope. It was no longer a distant flicker but a steady flame within her. She began to understand that while grief would always be a part of her life, it didn't have to define her. There was beauty to be found in the world still around her, in the love of friends, the support of her church, and the tender memories of Mark.

In her heart, Sarah carried forward a message: grief can transform and evolve into hope. While she may never have all the answers to her 'why' questions, she found peace in knowing that love transcends even the deepest pain. Life, with its uncertainties, still had a purpose. And so, with courage and faith, she stepped forward, ready to embrace the light that awaited her in the sunrise of each new day.

Too many of us have ordinary minds that fail to see the value of appreciating what once were architectuaral gems by destroying those gems into something far less to the archotects original purpose.

The Legacy of the PONCE Hotel: A Beacon of Hope in Saint Augustine**

In the enchanting city of Saint Augustine, where history whispers through cobblestone streets, stands a testament to vision, ambition, and artistry—the PONCE Hotel. Built by Henry Flagler, a man whose genius transformed the landscape of Florida, this architectural marvel represents more than just bricks and mortar; it embodies a legacy of beauty and aspiration.

Henry Flagler, co-founder of the Standard Oil Company, possessed an extraordinary flair for architectural elegance. His creations, including the PONCE Hotel, reflected a passion for grandeur and a deep respect for the cultural richness of the region. After his passing in 1913, however, the hotel fell victim to neglect and despair. Time, it seemed, was not on the side of such a magnificent structure. There was talk of leveling the PONCE to make way for a parking garage, a fate that would have stripped away a profound chapter of Saint Augustine’s identity.

But then came Lawrence Lewis, Henry's great nephew—a man who not only shared his uncle's appreciation for architectural beauty but also understood the soul of the city. With a heart full of compassion and a vision rooted in hope, Lawrence stepped in to breathe new life into the PONCE Hotel. His dedication to restoring this iconic landmark ensured that it wouldn’t just stand as a relic of the past but would evolve as a vibrant college, nurturing young minds and encouraging the pursuit of knowledge.

Imagine for a moment what Saint Augustine could have looked like had the PONCE Hotel been replaced with a parking garage. The historic charm of the area would be dulled, a layer of its history erased forever. Sunsets no longer cradled by the elegance of Flagler's design, the sound of laughter, and the scent of inspiration that once filled the halls evaporated. In its stead, dull concrete, endless rows of vehicles, and a soulless expanse would have taken root—an enormous loss for a city that thrives on its past.

Today, thanks to Lawrence’s commitment, the PONCE Hotel continues to stand proudly and participate in the legacy of Saint Augustine. It serves as a beacon of hope and renaissance, reminding all who pass by of the beauty that can emerge from compassion and dedicated action. The PONCE is not just a building; it has become a sanctuary for ideas and dreams, embodying the spirit of a city that values its history and the potential for a bright future.

As we reflect on the narrative of the PONCE Hotel, let us remember the power of preservation and the importance of championing the beauty that surrounds us. Each stone of this historic site tells a story—a story of resilience and rebirth. It reminds us that, with a touch of compassion and a dash of hope, we can forge a brighter path, celebrating our past while nurturing our future.

In the ever-changing tapestry of life, it is the spirit of individuals like Lawrence Lewis that reassures us—no matter how dark the times may seem, a spark of hope can illuminate the way forward, preserving the beauty of our shared history for generations to come. Just as Henry Flagler envisioned a world of elegance and grandeur, we too must aspire to create spaces that inspire, connect, and uplift all who encounter them.