Our Story of Loss and Grief
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Excerpt: Our Story of Loss & Grief - Loss of a Loved One Session 1
Course: Loss Of A Loved One
Speakers: Benji Horning, Jen Horning
Our Story: Finding Our Way Through the Wilderness of Grief
As we embark on this journey together, exploring the landscape of grief, we wanted to share a part of our own story with you. We believe that in sharing our experiences, we can foster a sense of connection and understanding in the midst of your own unique pain.
For me, Benji, the first significant loss I navigated was the sudden death of my dad when I was 26. It was a brutal shock. A wrong medication led to a devastating adverse reaction, ultimately resulting in his suicide. In the three days leading up to his passing, we knew something was terribly wrong, and then the unthinkable happened.
The Earthquake of Loss: Navigating Early Grief
His death sent my world, our family's world, into a tailspin of raw anguish. For me, it also triggered a period of intense anxiety and fear that was truly immobilizing for over a year. Insomnia became a constant companion, along with bizarre and persistent fears. It felt impossible, earth-shattering – the one thing you never imagined would happen, happened. It wasn't just grief and loss; it was deeply traumatic.
And for Jen, my dad was the most significant, solid presence in her life. His passing, especially in the way it occurred, meant more than just losing a father-in-law. In a way, for a season, I felt like I almost lost my wife to the depths of her grief. As a newly married couple, our vows of "for better or for worse" took on a weight we could never have anticipated so early on. We felt like we were drowning in sorrow.
Another Wave: The Loss of Our Ruby
Then, fast forward a few years, and we faced another profound loss: our niece Ruby passed away four years ago at the young age of seven. Ruby, who had been adopted and lived with severe cerebral palsy, was truly the queen of our family. While she faced significant challenges, we never expected her life to be so short.
Walking through that loss was a different kind of wild. We know many of you watching are not only experiencing your own grief but are also supporting others through theirs. Ruby's passing was a massive loss for us, and it involved learning how to love and support our family as they navigated something that again felt impossible. You're just hit with this reality that was never supposed to happen. And then you're walking alongside people you love so deeply, experiencing their pain alongside your own, and witnessing the grief of their children – Ruby wasn't just their cousin; she was one of their best friends.
Sustained by Grace: Our Hope for Your Journey
Waves of grief hit us that we were completely unprepared for. It was only by the grace of God that we were sustained through those dark times. And that is truly what we hope this course offers you. Whatever your story, our deepest desire is that beyond the content we share, the living God would meet you in your pain and that His grace would be sufficient for you in whatever you are facing.
From my own experience, I can attest that God showed up and was faithful even in those darkest valleys. That is our sincere hope and prayer for you as you navigate your own unique journey of grief.
If you like the content, you can continue in a few different ways…
1) See the outline below and check out other sections from the FFP course.
2) Take the full small group course to your church community! The first course your church runs is free! Reach out to us here to learn how.
3) Connect with a Share The Struggle Coach for one-on-one support. Let’s face it, some of us have tried kicking this thing, and we’ve had no luck. It’s time to start looking toward forms of support that can help us see and feel the beautiful life God has in store for us.
Loss Of A Loved One
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Loss Of A Loved One 〰️
Session 1
Session 2
Session 3
Session 4
Session 5
Session 6
Share The Struggle Courses
Share the Struggle Courses are topical expert led video courses to help you understand life’s greatest struggles and provide you with tools for navigating them. Moreover, STS courses create a space for you to connect with others struggling with similar things, experience belonging, and encounter God’s nearness in a place of wilderness in your life (pain, confusion, healing journey). Want to start a group at your church? Reach out to us here to learn how.
What Share The Struggle Believes
Here at Share The Struggle we believe Jesus is present with us in the middle of our pain and mess, and it is in that place that we often experience and encounter Jesus most deeply.
We understand the unique challenges faced by Christians dealing with mental health. Our mission is to bridge the gap between faith and mental health support, providing a platform where individuals can find resources, coaching support and guidance, all tailored to their spiritual life and emotional needs.
We invite you to explore our resources, share your journey, and find the support you need to overcome the struggles you face.
