I have lost 3 people I cared about in the last 6 weeks.
And it’s hard not to be able grieve together with family and community. Really hard.
Once again, technology has been a grace…but not a replacement.
And so, I do what I can.
Send cards to my cousins and my aunt.
Have a socially distanced visit with my sister-in-law who lost her husband.
Join in from my home with other associates and sisters praying our dear Colette’s soul to heaven.
AND…
Wait patiently and trust there will be a time to grieve and celebrate their lives in person.
Pray for their loved ones that their faith and those of us who care will comfort them.
Contemplate how I, how we can make sure they leave a legacy. In the case of Colette, she was a leader in justice, especially of late in our community in racial justice.
Let us in Dominican spirit, contemplate…may it be one that embraces building, preaching, and being peace in our current times.
And it’s ok to cry for now I think.
Thanks Mary Beth and God grant you peace as you go through this sad time. My sister, Angie, has now lost her best friend, Helen to COVID. Helen was buried today to which funeral Angie couldn’t attend due to pandemic. She was already grieving other friends, husband, wife, and 2 children all lost their life to COVID-19. So I know the pain, the stress, the sadness, prayers, and love ALL needed to make it through . So know my prayer is with you!
Peace,
Esther Calderon, OP
Thank you Esther; feeling empathy decreases the sense of isolation we all feel at times during this pandemic.
Thank you Marybeth. Yes, the hardest part is not being able to hold space for those you love who are grieving as well. God Bless.
Mary Beth,
I’m grateful for your voice in these times… and in ALL times. We cling to the waiting of Advent and pray for the Light to come. May angels heal the hearts of those left behind.
Thank you!
shelby
Beautiful, Marybeth, and thank you!
Thank you, Mary Beth for sharing what so many are feeling! May God comfort you and all of us who have endured loss this year!
Blessings, and virtual hugs,
Pat Mood, OP
Hi Marybeth – So sorry for all of your losses. Thanks for sharing your grief with us. It is so difficult to properly grieve in these pandemic days. You and family are in my prayers.
Thanks Mary Beth for sharing your reflections. These are very challenging times and we certainly need prayers and each other to get us through.
Peace be with you.
Jan