blogger mom

This Thanksgiving I was able to hear my grandfather's voice again. Some friends gave us a beautiful gift. It was an interview that my grandfather had given their son for a school project about 10 years ago. He was talking about his experiences on D-Day. My grandfather was on the beach at Normandy that day. He looked healthy and was alert, it was so good to see him that way. It was so good to simply hear his voice. I could almost hear him say, "How's my girl." At the most random times this holiday season my grief has hit me heavily. Standing in line at the bank, a song on the radio, buying wrapping paper. I guess that's how grief works.

I have friends that are grieving tonight. It's a kind of grief I can not begin to understand.

This night and every night
seems infinite with questions,
and sleep elusive
as answers

Pain and longing are always present,
dulled only a little
by the distractions of the day.
I am weary; I am angry.
I am confused.

Circle our friends, Lord.
Keep despair and disillusion without.
Bring a glimmer of hope within.

Circle our friends, Lord;
keep nightmare without.
Bring moments of rest within.

Circle our friends, Lord;
keep bitterness without.
Bring an occasional sense
of Your presence within.

May Michael, prince of angels,
come to meet his soul,
leading Elpida Matthew home
to the heaven of the Son of God.

Elpida, HOPE.