Losing a loved one is not only hard on your emotional and physical life. It will probably affect your spiritual life. Today we’ll talk a bit about spirituality and grief.
Spiritual doubts from one of our readers:
“The thing I really struggle with is how everyone says she is in a better place.. I was brought up to believe in heaven and I do believe in heaven, but how do we REALLY REALLY KNOW.. if I knew for certain she was happier, then I could rest a little better. I am ashamed that I feel this way because I do believe in God, but I just wish I KNEW for certain. It’s called lack of faith I guess…”
Spirituality And Grief
Grief and belief…
Questioning your God or religious beliefs after a tragedy is a normal reaction, with no easy answers. Let your doubts surface. You will work through your spiritual crisis as your grief progresses and resolves.
On the other hand, bereavement may actually strengthen your beliefs. Embrace your spirituality and religious rituals. Prayer and faith may give you support and help you through the roughest spots when nothing else works.
“Letting go and letting God” is a sign of strength and wisdom, not weakness.
Meditation, prayer, yoga, or Tai Chi can create a soothing restful oasis during your heavy days.
Did you find comfort at church before this happened? Then continue attending church services, and stay in touch with your church “family”.
Let Go and Let God Sign Let Go and Let God Wall DecorDicksons Give It to God Go to Sleep Whitewashed 10 x 3 Wood Tabletop PlaqueLet Go And Let God Vinyl Sticker for Laptops, Windows and Water Bottles
Spiritual Cinema Circle
Grief and belief…
Take a moment to explore the Spiritual Cinema Circle website. This is a very different type of movie service, which offers selected films that speak to your heart. They provide quality movies you will not likely find anywhere else. A very well-conceived and worthwhile project. “Movies that matter”.
Spiritual Cinema Circle website
Note: sadly, Spiritual Cinema will close its doors at the end of this month. Hopefully, you can find some of their DVDs on eBay or Craig’s list.
Comfort in watching movies about loss and grief
Grief and belief…
We also suggest below a handful of movies that may prove to be helpful to you during your grief journey. They may be beneficial, as they demonstrate how other people cope with loss and grief.
***Please do not watch them when you are newly bereaved and emotionally fragile. Read the reviews carefully and give them a viewing only when you are a little stronger and able to handle some heavy-duty introspection.
1. P.S. I Love You
This movie is a touching and entertaining look at the importance of friendship and family while adjusting to a tragic loss. A romantic comedy with depth and an important message.
2. Truly Madly Deeply
An intelligent, moving, and deeply funny story about loss, grief, and recovery. This is not a shallow “chick flick” but rather an excellent study of love and loss, handled in a tender and respectful manner. Highly recommended.
3. Tuesdays With Morrie
A touching, inspirational true story that demonstrates that a person for whom fate was not kind can commit to finding happiness and fulfillment in their last days. A wonderful movie.
4. The Five People You Meet in Heaven
No matter how seemingly insignificant a person may appear, life is never wasted. The main character visits with five people in heaven as he searches for the meaning of his own life. A unique and engaging movie.
Mitch Albom’s The Five People You Meet In Heaven
5. The Ultimate Gift
The focus of this movie is more on the meaning of life than a study of grief. However, we included it because it is a fun and inspirational gem of a movie. Surprising twists with a predictable ending, this beautifully filmed and acted story is a must-see for the whole family (Christian focus).
You may also find much-needed spiritual comfort in some of these excellent books:grief and loss books.