This month we celebrate a magnificent milestone in our country – 250 years of democracy. Someone once told me the United States’ founding culture was one of rugged and independent individualism. True or not, independence remains a defining value for both our nation and us. Sometimes independence can be a beautiful idea, like when our country sought independence from England or when a young child begins to walk and gains a new independence.
Yet, the concept of independence can also carry a sense of pain. Like when your loved one has died, and now you must figure out how to live independently without your partner doing the things they always did. I remember after my dad died, my mom and I went to the gas station so I could teach her how to put gas in the car. In their love arrangement, my dad had always filled the car with gas. Now, learning this chore meant facing a painful reminder of her husband every time she bought gas. Let’s be honest – these things are hard. The good news is that you may have to be independent, but you will never be alone. Scripture repeatedly assures us that God will always be with us and that God goes before us…even to the gas pump.
May this assurance bring you peace, hope and confidence as you learn to live independently without your loved one.
Grief Support (offered via Zoom)
Finding Connection
Wednesday, July 15, 7-8 PM CT
We’ll explore how one might find connection in a time of growing independence.
Mind, Body, Spirit Grief Support
Thursdays, July 9, 16, 23 & 30, 10AM – 11 AM CT.
We’ll explore the role of hope in times of loss.
If you are interested in joining a group, or establishing one at your community, contact Optage Hospice or call Jenny Schroedel at 651-341-7105. Optage is the home and community services division of Presbyterian Homes & Services.