When God Went Silent: Embracing Grief and Finding Healing
- Lea Riley
- Sep 10
- 3 min read
Updated: Sep 23
The Journey Through Grief
I never set out to be an author. Writing was never my trade. I never imagined I would one day bare the most painful and tender parts of my life on paper. But grief has a way of pushing you into places you never expected to go.
When my husband died suddenly, my world collapsed. In the aftermath, I did what I had always done: I pushed the feelings down. I shoved them into corners of my heart I thought no one would ever touch. Survival became my only goal. I kept moving because stopping meant facing the silence.
For years, I lived that way. Outwardly functioning, inwardly fractured. Then, thirteen years later, I sat down to write. What I thought would be a simple story on paper became something else entirely—it became a lifeline.
The Power of Writing
Writing forced me to open the box I had nailed shut. It dragged out the memories, the guilt, the anger, and the loneliness I thought I had buried for good. It wasn’t pretty. It wasn’t polished. But it was real. For the first time, I began to see that healing wasn’t about pushing grief away. It was about giving it a voice.
This memoir isn’t just about loss. It’s about what happens when the world you knew disappears—and somehow, you learn to breathe again. It’s about the strange, unexpected gifts grief can leave behind: resilience, faith that looks different than before, and the ability to live with more honesty than ever.
Finding Light in Darkness
Here’s the truth: I write so I can help just one person walk this earth a little lighter. If my words give someone permission they haven’t had yet—to grieve, to heal, to hope—then I’ve done my job here. What better gift could any of us bestow than lightening another person’s burden, even just a little?
That’s why I decided to write this memoir: because silence keeps us stuck, but sharing has the power to set us free.
Embracing Vulnerability
In sharing my story, I embrace vulnerability. It’s not easy to expose the raw edges of our hearts. Yet, I believe it’s essential. When we allow ourselves to be seen, we invite others to do the same. We create a space for connection and understanding.
I’ve learned that vulnerability is not a weakness. It’s a strength. It’s an act of courage to share our struggles and our triumphs. It’s an invitation for others to join us on this journey of healing.
The Gifts of Grief
Grief can be a heavy burden. Yet, it can also be a teacher. It shows us what truly matters. It reveals the depth of our love and the strength of our spirit. Through grief, I found a new perspective on life.
I learned to cherish the small moments. A gentle breeze, a warm cup of tea, or a shared smile can bring immense joy. These moments remind me that life continues, even amidst sorrow.
Building a Supportive Community
As I wrote, I realized the importance of community. We are not meant to walk this path alone. Sharing our stories creates bonds that can uplift and inspire. Together, we can navigate the complexities of grief and healing.
I hope to build a supportive community for those on their spiritual journey. A place where we can share our experiences, learn from one another, and grow together.
The Path Forward
Moving forward, I carry my husband’s memory with me. I honor our love by living fully. I embrace each day with gratitude and openness. Life is a precious gift, and I strive to make the most of it.
In conclusion, my journey through grief has shaped me in profound ways. I invite you to explore your own feelings, to give voice to your pain, and to seek healing. Remember, you are not alone. Together, we can find light in the darkness.
If you’re seeking guidance on your own path, I encourage you to reach out. There’s a world of support waiting for you. Let’s walk this journey together.
Comments