Tuesday, December 2, 2008

The "W" word

Last night I attended a special one night seminar held at our church. It was conducted by the GriefShare facilitators and entitled "Surviving the Holidays." The purpose was to give those mourning the loss of a loved one tools to get through the Christmas season - a time wrought with so many memories and family traditions.

And it was during that class that someone referred to me as the "W" word.

WIDOW

Oh no...they couldn't have been referring to me, could they?

I can't quite get there in my mind. I don't want to be a "widow." Oh sweet Jesus...sometimes it's almost more than I can bear.

"Then she got up and went away and took off her veil and put on her widow's clothing." Genesis 38:19

11 comments:

NewJerseyJesus said...

Gigi,

Forget the word, widow. You are a beatiful beloved child of our living Savior, wonderful wife to your sweet hubby and a most loving mother. You know Jesus is looking at your right now saying, "Sweet child of mine."

Gigi said...

Oh NJJ - you don't know how I needed to hear those words...thank you, thank you. I never want to stop being my Sweet Hubby's wife. Ever. I felt so broken when I left the class last night...

Jody said...

Labels are not always helpful, in this case it wasn't. I agree with NJJ, a beloved Child of God. How much He loves you, cling to Him.
I'm not experiencing personally your loss, but my mom is going through everything you are right now, so I can relate somewhat as I try to help her.They were married 48 years and there are times she is lost.

Gigi said...

Yes, you're right Jody...no labels. I was my Sweet Hubby's WIFE and that is the "W" word I will keep close to my heart, no matter what society wants to call me.

Last night was difficult because many there expressed feelings of anger towards the Lord that their loved one was gone. I have no anger...how could I? My Sweet Hubby was my most precious gift from God Himself. And it was the Lord who compassionately put an end to my Sweet Hubby's suffering when He called him Home. How could I be angry in the face of so much love?

I do cling to Him...every second of every day. He is my Strength and my Rock. And to Him be all the glory.

Putz said...

DO YOU KNOW YOU ARE IN HIGH CLASS COMPANY...JESUS WAS ALWAYS THINKING about widows, and serving them and many of us in the world are especially concerned about them...at least you aren't that BLACK WIDOW who you read about in stories

Gigi said...

Yes putz...Jesus had a heart for the widows, this I know. And my church is certainly doing a good work in this area - just this past Sunday another deacon was ordained. I am well cared for...

And no black widow here - although my Sweet Hubby and I did have a close personal experience with one in a hotel room years ago! Three words...catch and release!

Have a blessed day putz - and as always, thanks for the smile!

Lori said...

I agree forget the word, take it toss it out the window and claim what Christ calls you...His Beloved.

Marlene said...

Gigi....I agree that you will always be your sweet hubby's wife...it must have been so hard last night and I am so sorry you felt so broken....you are not alone...you have my love and prayers.....

Vicki said...

Hi Gigi,
I noticed that you quoted a scripture about a woman putting on the clothes of a widow. I can't say it all, Gigi, but your life has changed. Take each step with the one who is the Great Comforter. He will lead you gently. That is all you need for today.
Blessings,
Vicki

Tamela's Place said...

Hello gigi,

You are so beautiful and truly a blessing.

I don't know if you have heard of the singer Jeremy camp or not but he has a new music C.D. out titled: " Speaking louder than before" There is a song on his c.d. titled, "There will be a day"
I thought of you when i heard it. Maybe you can listen to that song of his. It will truly touch your heart. It is probably one of the most beautiful songs that i think i have ever heard! it is truly a song inspired by the Holy Spirit of God!

Tamela :)

Gigi said...

Yes Tamela...love Jeremy Camp! My Sweet Hubby and I have seen him many times in concert as well. And he was on the last K-LOVE cruise with us in January. I know he lost his first wife to cancer, had quite a struggle and his music has been such a big part of his healing process. That is a wonderful song. There will be a day with no more tears, no more pain and no more fears...YES!!