It’s hard to see a new year coming, especially for those with losses so new. We feel like we are leaving part of us behind as we desperately plead for time to stop.
Whether this is your first or you’ve endured many, seeing the new year arrive can be absolutely terrifying, increasing the heartbreak when we’ve lost a loved one.
I remember entering my first new year without my daughter. It had been a little over five months and I repeatedly counted the days since our last day together, yearning for a closeness that was slowly slipping away from me.
There were days and months of panic, not being able to breathe, completely overwhelmed while living in disbelief of my new reality.
There was no way, I thought. There was absolutely no way I could do this. To continue a new year, a new life without my girl was unfathomable. It hurt too much.
Little did I know how my life would continue to evolve, as I heavily relied on my faith, knowing God was the only one who could get me through this.
And now, as my 17th new year without her comes knocking, I am reminded, not just of my brokeness, but of the powerful love that still exists with my sweet girl.
On the eve of this new beginning, I want to remind you to hang on. There is hope. It may take a while to find it, but it’s there, I promise, and so is God. He knows your pain and the difficult road ahead, and He’s got you.
As the challenges of a new year arrive, my heart is with you. For those of you carrying heavy hearts with loved ones in heaven, rest assured they have just gone ahead of us. Until the ultimate reunion, may your days be filled with treasured memories and your hearts be renewed with the comfort, hope, and everlasting love of the Lord.
One day at a time. You got this.
On the journey with you.
Daphne
