by Emily Grey

For so much of our lives, we deal with death. The couple in this story must overcome the tragic passing of their siblings. Along with that is the promise of their nephew’s young life going forward.

Suzanne and Chase must set aside their own sorrow in favor of the child’s benefit. Both novices, they are challenged with new experiences. How does one tell a four-year-old that their beloved parents have gone to be with the Lord? Is there a right way? A wrong way?

Along with accepting this tragedy, they must deal with the boy’s shattered heart and trust.

I’ve lost so many relatives and friends recently that one would think each passing would become easier to cope. Not so. I feel more sorrow and deeper feelings of regret with each loss.

Perhaps as one gets older, our sensitivity levels become keener, more deeply felt. Writing this story and feeling Suzanne’s and Chase’s pain has been a cathartic experience for me, a spiritual renewal. But still I grieve.

There is no easy way to accept the loss of a loved one. Prayer, forgiveness and enlightenment might soften the burden.