Pastor’s Perspective with The Reverend Jo White
Grief is something we all live with. It is something that
ebbs and flows in our lives. Sometime we can be worried about the feelings that
grief brings to the surface and ask ourselves; ‘When will this go away?’ We may
even be told by family members or close friends to get over it and move on. I
like to think that when someone we love dies that we change and because of that
change we don’t get over grief we get used to it. There is a preciousness about
remembering our departed loved one. There can be peace and even joy in
cherished memories.
It is only ten days since Bishop John McIntyre; the
spiritual leader and friend of the Anglican Diocese of Gippsland died. On
Friday we will gather in Sale for a Memorial Service to celebrate and remember
his life of service to the community and to the church. Personally, these
events have brought up feelings of grief. I’ve noticed, as I’m sure you have,
that the loss of someone who has had a profound influence on our lives stirs up
all sorts of feelings.
In experiencing again a sense of loss I’ve found myself
having trouble sleeping, being a bit grumpier than usual, making little
mistakes, feeling heavy, laughing and crying. I’ve been listening to a song and
found myself thinking of him. I’ve found myself reading an article written by
Bishop John and thinking I will not hear from this wise and courageous man
again.
