When You Lose Someone You Love
It happens soon or late: death intrudes on every life. The moment comes for everyone when you lose someone you love. As pastor I am often there, and I have also been there by myself from time to time. Sometimes it comes suddenly and without warning. Sometimes it comes after a long and lingering illness. Sometimes it comes in a peaceful parting of one who has lived a good long full life. At times it comes be self-inflicted. Sometimes its arrival is a mystery. But it comes to everyone, young and old and to all the in-betweens.
This book is a pastor’s response to that final loss for all who have walked that lonely road, and for those who walk it now, and those who one day will. I have no magic potion to offer, no panacea, no secret password; but I have walked that way myself, and I have shared the journey with countless friends and members of the Churches I have served. It takes time and care to ease the pain and loneliness of separation. Readjustment does not come easily; the road is rugged and steep, at times it seems impossible, but we have a wonderful guard and guide to see us through.
My purpose here is to offer some broad range ideas, and some specific suggestions on the process we call grief. My hope is that it will be helpful to you and to others who must walk the lonesome valley.
