Gone… But Not Forgotten

In the beginning…

There was only life. God created all things to thrive.

Heaven reached down its loving embrace

and merged with new

and vibrant Mother Earth with the intention of everlasting life…

Until the fall.

To everything there is a season.

Losing someone we love hurls us into a season of mourning. A time in which we are never fully prepared. If we shared a lifetime or just a few moments together, whether we see it as a blessing or cannot find God’s reasoning anywhere, losing someone we love hurts deeply. Death takes a piece of our heart and we mourn in its absence.

Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. (Matthew 5:4)

In what sense can it be true that mourners are blessed? In our grieving we feel pain, deep sadness and heartache. Our time of mourning is a very personal experience and can be quite different for everyone.

To help understand we might ask ourselves this question. Do we believe in Heaven? Do we believe there is life after death? Sadly, when one does not believe, they are putting a limit on what God can do. God is mighty and can move a mountain. Can we have faith and allow Him to do so?

God is love. Love knows no boundaries. Love never ends.

In the belief of ever-lasting life, we find the connection. In the depth of our love for each other we are united eternally. To mourn is an important external expression of an internal reality.

We need to release our emotions and let God ease us through our grieving season.

He does this in a very personal way. God will meet us where we are and comfort us, many times when it is needed most. The more familiar you are with His manner of revelation, the more you will be certain of His loving signs sent just for you.

These heavenly signs are unique and come with distinct qualities. They intimately connect us with ones we’ve lost in such a way that others may not understand, but God knows all! He reveals these endearing signs to comfort us and bring us hope. The love we shared here on earth continues in a new realm. It is truly a blessing when we receive a knowing sign and allow it to heal us. God, in His compassion, wants us to find joy again. He wants us to trust Him with our loved ones. His plan continues.

We are limited here on earth. As we strive to become Holy, our role in Heaven is not unlike the saints. With the grace of God, He may permit intercession for those who are stuck in their mourning or maybe just need a sign of encouragement or direction.

In the name of Love, anything is possible. In the name of Love, we find God.

We call on this intercession in our memorial services and in our Holy Mass. We may plant a tree or a garden. Some may tribute a bench or plaque in one’s name. We organize events and plan celebrations in their memory. We keep family traditions and we cherish our keepsakes. We share heartfelt memories and photographs with our young ones. There are endless creative ways to keep our loved ones’ memory alive. No doubt, they are gone from our sight, but they simply cannot be forgotten. The love that united us in the beginning… is still connecting us today.

We were created from love and it is through love God calls us back to Himself. An ebb and flow of eternal blessings. It forms a bond with all we are passionate about. Perhaps we could live with new awareness of this bond. Share with others what we find beautiful. Live with Truth in our hearts and to a new degree of intention.

Let’s bless those we love by making fond new memories.

Let’s make it easier to be found when we are gone.

As it was in the beginning is now and ever shall be.

A world without end.

Blessings to all…

Until our next walk through the garden…

- Anne