Sometimes We’re Fragile

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Fragile

A wave larger than me
hits from out of nowhere,
crashing over me
engulfing me
but I’m not at the beach.
The only wetness I feel
is that of my tears
flowing as from a faucet
triggered by the tiniest
memory or thought,
brought on by the barest hint
by just a glance of the familiar.
With quick hand to my face
I try to catch the sob,
try to soften its effect
to hide my vulnerability
to protect others from the wave,
from the grief that’s now my portion.
The unexpected loss overwhelms,
I’ve never felt so fragile
not knowing when the wave
will wash over me again.
I’d be in despair
crushed without hope
if not for the Lord
if not for his love and peace.
But he’s with me
giving strength for each step
lifting my face to his light
holding my fragile heart
in his hand
supporting my frame
with the love and comfort
of family and friends.
Life is fragile
and sometimes so are we,
but that’s okay—
that’s when love swoops in
and carries us,
that’s when the Lord
tenderly wipes our tears.

“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Psalm 34:18

*How has the Lord upheld you when you’ve felt fragile?

*Flickr photo by jenny downing, Creative Commons License

Comments

  1. beautifully written, Cheryl. May God draw especially close to your fragile pain today.

    • Thank you, Elaine. God has indeed been granting comfort. The poem expresses what I’ve felt so often, especially in those first days following Mom’s death. I pray that it –and the scripture — will help others who are grieving find comfort in the Lord.

  2. Rachel Davidson Skatvold says

    That was a beautiful poem, Cheryl. I love how at the end you mention how God wipes away our tears. I’m still praying for you and your family during this time. I hope you have a blessed day.

  3. Excellent poem, Cheryl. Really expresses the feelings.

    • Thanks so much, Janice. Along with me, you know the feelings quite well — so glad you feel like the poem captured them. I pray it will lead others to turn to the Lord for comfort. He has certainly been our strong support and comfort.

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