Hello friends,

How can it be that we are welcoming September?
If you’re anything like me, you’re left wondering, how did summer slip away so quickly? Each year, time seems to quicken its pace, rushing past no matter how tightly I try to hold it. Even when I lean in fully, soaking up every moment, it still vanishes—like a vapor, a breath, an instant —and it's gone.

And yet, this September is slightly different. It carries a weight because it's the reminder that a year since my mom left this earth is quickly approaching in November. It was this time last year that I cared for my mom with my sister in the hospital in Jackson.
Grief seems to bend time in strange ways: some days feel like yesterday, others like forever ago.
The turning of seasons reopens the ache, and even the coming of the beauty of fall cannot quiet the longing for her presence or to hear her voice one last time.

But maybe this is an invitation to let time, fragile as it is, draw me nearer to the God who holds it all.
To pause and ask:
What has grief taught me?
Where did I notice God’s nearness in my sorrow?
What do I want to carry forward as I walk toward the anniversary of her death?

It can be challenging to change seasons when you've experienced loss. Although September marks an ending, it also reminds me that love never truly ends. And though grief is heavy, grace is here too, and it's meeting me in the changing seasons, whispering that I am not alone.

“Teach us to number our days,
that we may gain a heart of wisdom.”
—Psalm 90:12

Prayer​
Lord, as September unfolds,
my heart feels the sharp edges of grief.
I miss my mom,
and the ache rises as the calendar turns.
Be near to me in this season
hold my tears,
steady my heart,
and remind me that even in sorrow,
Your presence is my comfort.
Carry me through this anniversary
with gentleness and grace.
Amen.

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What Grievers Really Need: How to Support Others and Yourself Through Grief

In this collaborative post, Katy Parker asked those sharing their stories in her Grief Stories series how they support others, and themselves, through grief. These are not clinical tips or one-size-fits-all advice. They’re real words from real people about what helps, what doesn’t, and how to support others without forgetting yourself when navigating grief.

I was honored to be included in this article. Please click the button below to read more.

Click here to read more!

I am so thankful God meets us in our grief.

I’d love to hear how this September is meeting you. Hit reply and share your heart.
With love,

P.S. If you find yourself carrying grief into September, too, you may find comfort in my book The Freedom to Feel. It’s a companion for those navigating loss, reminding us that even in our deepest sorrow, God draws near. You can find it [here].​

P. P. S. If you’re carrying grief and longing for someone to walk alongside you, I’d be honored to be that companion. As a grief coach, I help others find language for their loss and hope for the journey ahead. You can learn more about working with me [here].​

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