Messages of Hope
Real stories. Real hope.
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The older we get, and the longer we live, the more common dealing with death, grief and loss inevitably becomes.
But, while loss can be a cause for sadness, it can also provide a new perspective on the life we are given, the life we have lived, and the life we still have ahead.
For Lois, the loss of a number of significant people throughout her life has served as encouragement to live her own life to the full — and to pour hope, faith and encouragement richly and abundantly into the lives of others, especially in retirement.
Key takeaways from this episode
- Losing others is difficult; and seasons of grief, mourning and sadness are natural and needed — The longer we live, the more likely it is for us to have to say goodbye to others. It is important to take the time to process loss and to engage with grief and grieving.
- A feeling of emptiness can often follow loss, but that emptiness can also be a reminder that life is for living to the full — Even if life feels empty, or emptier, without someone right now, your life is still full of wonderful things.
- In time, grief and loss can strengthen us, inspire us, and even change the outlook we have on the value and meaning of our own lives — Experiencing loss can shape our perspective for the future, and can remind us to invest fully in the things that fill our days, the things that bring us joy, and the things that help to improve the lives of others.
- Life is a gift, and gifts are most valuable and appreciated when they are given or shared with others — Each day is an opportunity to both remember those that have passed, and to celebrate the life we have. One of the biggest ways we can celebrate the time we are given in our own lives is to invest that time in building relationships and community with others.
- Growing older is not the end of life and living; even in the later years of our lives, God is at work, and He is working through you! — Increasingly, Lois has found her purpose continues beyond retirement, and beyond the loss of her husband. Through welcoming people into her home, leading faith-sharing groups and supporting others, she finds new opportunities to serve and share God’s love.
- We may not know what tomorrow holds, but we can face it with the assurance that God loves us, walks with us and offers us a meaningful life — A life shaped by loss can also be a life shaped by hope. Through a relationship with God, grief can deepen compassion, uncertainty can become an opportunity for trust, and every stage of life can offer new ways to love and serve others.
Episode transcript
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Related booklet
Faithful living through all the seasons of life, including retirement.
