Mourn With Those Who Mourn

There are no words to ease the pain of another's suffering and that's the way it should be.

Cathy and I visited today with a family mourning the death of their 20 year old son, brother, nephew, grandson. Cathy noted that we can add nothing to ease their pain and because we have been where we have been, she would like to spare this family from what may be ahead. Better to say less and listen more is what Cathy knows.

If anyone could produce the words to ease the pain that person would be more than human, god-like I suppose. In mourning, I believe I grew when I let God into my life. Growth, not to be confused with "getting better" includes turning energy toward compassion instead of resentment. Growth is having room for another person's trouble rather than self centeredness. Growth is knowing to walk away from poison people and toxic situations. Growth is knowing what I have is enough and sacrficing what I have for hopes of more is to have a lack of gratitude and dangerous to my peace.

Today I know having compassion for another person does not include taking on their pain nor does it consist of giving advice or healing their sorrow. I'm grateful to be welcomed into the lives of people who mourn so we can mourn with them. I want to follow the words of God.

In the house of sorrow resides wisdom and mercy. There are no greater gifts than wisdom to know good from evil and mercy toward others. My prayers are never for less than wisdom and mercy. The prayer is always answered, I don't always accept the gift as I sometimes choose self reliance because I'm human.When I do accept the answer to my prayers, it makes all the difference. Maybe I will remember now that I have seen evil and mercy again.