poem to the editor
Relief from grief
After my husband of 42 years was diagnosed
And died suddenly of pancreatic cancer,
It was suggested that I attend grief classes.
My response was absolutely not.
I don’t need that and that will not help
Me get over losing the love of my life,
My college sweetheart!
As time passed and my desire to live
Lessened, I was lost in the wilderness,
Like the children of Israel.
A good friend suggested I attend her
Church, Farragut Presbyterian.
I was reluctant but decided to go.
I first attended a social
Function where I met several lovely
Couples and they witnessed my deep
Sadness. Later I attended a service.
The Pastor, Matt Nieman, has a caring poetic style
That is very honest and natural. He too,
Like many, has experienced a personal loss
And struggles with resilience and looks
To God for answers.
Pastor Nieman started grief classes
And even though I was against it before,
I went to a class.
It really helped to talk about my grief and listen
To others.
Discussing grief is something
That has helped me in so many ways.
I finally started feeling better and less sorry
For myself.
Pastor Nieman and I have the same philosophy
In life, give back, help others and realize
Every person is a temporary gift, not ours for the keeping.
FPC has a community of givers and survivors.
It’s an everyday thing for them to give back
And I joined in this community
Of faith.
Pastor Nieman conducts a grief class
Twice a month and his lessons
Always touch a spot in my heart
He discusses other types of grief besides
The death of a loved one,
Other types can be just as traumatic
And difficult to accept.
The church has opened doors in my life.
Accepting grief and moving forward
Will always be
My Goal.
FPC is more than good enough for me.
By Gayle Williams
