Jan 2023 - Challenges and Hope
Challenges and Hope
Every new year is filled with possibilities: new opportunities, new people, new places…
But sometimes the new is oh so challenging.
The loss of my partner of 47 years has been the most difficult experience of my life. I know it’s a long journey and I have much still to learn. But I want to share with you a little of my first impressions.
So how am I?
Mostly okay so far.
Being busy has helped—there were so many things that needed attention. I didn’t have time to grieve much--it was overwhelming
Being with my kids and grandkids helped. I spent most of December going from one home to the next for extended stays.
The love and hugs were fun and healing. Grandchildren are great distractions. And I made Swedish pancakes twice!
People praying for me has been so important—and I have been blessed with many praying for me. This is surely why I am doing as well as I am.
Waves of sadness hit—usually unexpectedly. A picture, a comment, a memory. Tears came. But God was a faithful comforter.
Some things have been hard
Doing Steve’s responsibilities—making my own coffee, putting out the trash, and especially handling finances. I have just returned home from the time with family, and now I need to face and do something about all these things.
Cooking for only myself—I can see how people start eating poorly.
Not having Steve to talk to—we talked through everything—at dinner each night and on Sunday mornings.
My journey without him has just begun—I know I will need to keep depending on God, trusting Him to give me all I need as I navigate this new “aloneness,” though of course, He will be with me.
What does my new look like?
A lot like before.
I will continue to lead Cru Women’s Resources as we seek to encourage, connect and resource staff women around the globe.
The When You Love a Prodigal weekly podcast and hopefully again soon my weekly blog Kindling: Starting Fires in Hearts and Minds will both be available at judy.douglass.com.
I hope to continue to do some speaking.
I have quite a few projects and ministries I participate in—we will see where God leads.
And I believe the Lord is leading me to pull together some of Steve’s writing and speaking content in some form to bless others.
What Gives Me Joy
One thing that gives me great joy is to encourage people to live and love more and more like Jesus. Here are a few articles from me and Steve to help you live out your New Year's hopes and dreams.
A Gift for You
I promise to send you lots of love in February,
Judy Douglass