I wrote the poem below in 2013 just a couple of weeks after losing my mom unexpectedly due to a car accident. I shared it at that time but thought someone might be comforted or helped by these words today. I think they can apply to a variety of situations or losses. I pray God will minister to you as you read, friends.
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 NIV
*How has the Lord upheld you when you’ve felt fragile?
*The new issue of Life Notes, my quarterly inspirational newsletter with a giveaway in every regularly scheduled issue, came out today. It’s not too late to receive it. Sign-up is free!
*For info about my books Christmas for the Heart: 25 Devotions Reclaiming the Beauty and Wonder of the Season and Mother of the Bride check out my Books/My Work page.
*Flickr photo by jenny downing, Creative Commons License