Catastrophic grief, as many can attest, commonly brings a paralyzing effect. The numbness washing through one’s mind and body like the slow rise of an ocean’s tide, may serve as a merciful buffer, sparing the person (for a time at least) a virtual crushing of the soul.

When trauma with its disorienting shock strikes us, some are lucky in discovering there is no substitute for the gentle, anchoring quiet of a close friend remaining nearby.

When Henry drew his last breath at the traffic intersection, his precious Joyce was thrust into the upside down world of utter loss. Mercifully (from a mercy only heaven could supply) Joyce’s horrifying sense of desolation would, through the coming hours, ease somewhat. Her close North American friend and fellow student, Juni, on learning of the violent death of Joyce’s boyfriend came immediately to her aid.

What followed through the coming months and even into years to come may only best be characterized as miraculous.

To the obvious question clamoring for answers, “How can good of any kind emerge out of such an evil-conceived nightmare,” an other-worldly response was to gradually emerge.

For those not having savored the tangible loving kindness of God – whose sacrificial offering invokes levels of empathy defying description simple language fall short.

Through Juni’s frequent presence and unimposing availability (shored up by a cadre of interceding teammates) the Spirit of comfort gained access to a traumatized, grief-stricken soul.

The precious scholar’s journey forward became marked by modest advances over long periods of time. One setback involved a major crash when the car in which she was riding was rear-ended by a speeding motorist. This resulted in an extended hospital stay. Juni and friends once again at her side.

Joyce found herself drawing upon the invisible strengths supplied from above and through her forever sisters. She welcomed Christ himself into both her life and her story going forward. He in turn granted, as the scriptures pledge, the treasured exchange. Beauty for ashes. The oil of joy for mourning … and even, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness.* Jesus – man of sorrows, acquainted with grief.*

*Isaiah 61:3; Isaiah 53:3 – ©2024 Jerry Lout Writer/Speaker Jerry Lout grew up in Okmulgee County. Jerry’s “Living with a Limp” and “Giants in the Rough” are available through Amazon. Current projects include “Inside-Out” and “Thresholds” – a string of narratives highlighting surprises, sorrows and adventure in the post-Africa years. Jerry welcomes reader comments at jerrylout@gmail.com and 918-857-4373.