Kristin, creating a masterpiece at the painting party.
Dealing with Grief
Since my husband, Michael’s passing two months ago, friends, family and neighbors have been kind enough to call, drop by or suggest activities to distract me, if only for a little while.
Jeanette Nelson, a family friend, recently invited my oldest daughter, Kristin and I to a painting party at her home. Jeanette explained a painting party is where a group of people get together to have a good time and in the process create a masterpiece. She also explained not only would it be lots of fun, but we’d have a painting to take home afterwards.
The host of the party (in this case Jeanette) chooses the subject to paint such as an abstract tree, an owl or sunflowers, while the instructor brings the necessary supplies, including a canvas for everyone, easels, paints, brushes and tables. Even though each participant paints the same art work, no two look alike, displaying each person’s individuality.
After preparing materials, our art instructor, Lori Burroughs invited everyone to find a place at one of the tables. As we sat down wondering what to do next, nervous giggles could be heard. Lori said not to worry, patiently explaining where to start on our canvas, how to dip brushes and what colors to use. Having lots of experience as an elementary art teacher, she moved around the room giving advice as well as praise. As you can see in the above photo, our lesson was an abstract tree.
Once we let go and allowed our inner artist to emerge, our bodies, mind and spirit relaxed. By the time we were half-way across the canvas, nerves were long forgotten. Not only was it lots of fun, but it was great therapy because in the process of painting and conversation with friends, Kristin and I became distracted from our grief, if only for a little while
There’s no question the last few weeks have been a roller coaster of emotional highs and lows, but having friends and family who care have helped make the lows easier. I especially have enjoyed reading all the notes of encouragement from cards and letters received. Some included hand-written Bible verses, such as the Twenty-Third Psalm and Psalm 91.
My sister-in-law, Hope Cline shared a simple message that was so profound, She said “Little by little life gets easier as you climb out of the valley. In other words, until the pain gets better, just keep on living.”
Although I’m thankful for everyone’s love and support, I’m especially thankful to my daughters, Kristin and Kelly and their husbands, Brian and Ben. Their willingness to help in anyway has been a blessing. In the process of dealing with their own grief, they too, have found ways to cope, including prayer, time alone, talking to friends, going back to work, reading inspirational books and keeping a normal daily routine.
As I’ve started the journey in this new phase of life the verse that keeps coming to mind is Proverbs 3:5-6. Trust in the Lord with all thine heart and lean not unto your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct your paths.
What about you? What ways have you found to deal with grief? Leave a comment below, message on Facebook or email dicysm@yahoo.com
Thanks,
Dicy
www.dicymcculloughbooks.com/blog
