51. Heartache, Grief, and God with Judith Vander Wege

Judith Vander Wege has been a Christian freelance writer for 44 years. On today’s episode, she shares about the heartache she’s endured over her life and how God has walked with her through the pain and grief. Judith shared insights about grief from her book, Annalisa’s Journey through Grief.  See the book on Amazon. suggestions for Coping with Grief What are the things that helped Annalisa cope with her grief? 1. It helped that a kind, concerned and respected friend was the one who brought her the news. 2. He let her cry without giving her platitudes, and acted sympathetic and patient. 3. It’s best not to say much while the griever is adjusting to the shock of the death. 4. Annalisa’s aunt was with her, who was also grieving. She said, “We’ll make it through.” 5. The one who brought the news (Pastor) prayed with them. 6. Annalisa’s dad was her aunt’s brother so they could support each other and understand. 7. They knew God is holy and righteous, and that he uses evil for good for those who love him. 8. It helped that neighbors and church friends were kind and helpful and sympathetic. 9. It helped Annalisa to reach out to Brenda (her bully) to try to help her and pray for her. 10.Favorite songs help. 11. Realizing other people have grief, also, helps. 12. It helps to have an older Christian loved one, who has gone through grief, remind of what God’s word says and help to understand about God and His love. 13. It helps to attend a Grief Support Group, especially if they are around the same age. 14. Realize that varied emotion are normal. It’s ok to cry, to express feelings of guilt, fears, etc. Judith’s Contact Information https://judithvanderwege.com/ Email: [e-mail] THANK YOU FOR LISTENING TO THE MENTAL HEALTH & FAITH: A CLOSER LOOK PODCAST. Join the conversation by leaving your comments or emailing Caroline at [e-mail]. Caroline S. Cooper (Owner of Mental Health Connect) is a writer, speaker, and podcast/YouTube host whose mission is to offer encouragement for life in a complicated world. Please email your comments, questions, or suggestions to [e-mail]. NEED HELP? Nationwide (USA) Suicide Prevention and Crisis Lifeline: Call Or Text:  988 SAMHSA’s National Helpline: (800)-662-HELP [4357] National Child Abuse Hotline: [phone] National Child Trafficking Hotline: [phone] National Domestic Violence Hotline: [phone] National Veterans Crisis Line: 800-273-8255 or Text to 838255 National LGBT Help Line: 888-843-4564 A MORE COMPLETE LIST OF MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES CAN BE FOUND ON CAROLINE’S WEBSITE. You can also sign up for her quarterly newsletter at the bottom of each page. https://carolinescooper.com CONNECT WITH CAROLINE! YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@MentalHealthAndFaith Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/CarolineSueCooper Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/carolinesuecooper/ LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolinescooper/ Amazon Author Page – Caroline S. Cooper on Amazon