Grief

The clinic has lost three volunteers over the past few weeks: Dr. Erv Malcheff, Marilyn Williams-Bayer and Bev Brown.

Dr. Malcheff was a chiropractor - he called a couple of years ago and offered his services. The patients loved him. He came every week when he was in town, and the care he provided was so appreciated.

Marilyn Williams-Bayer was a nurse, a counselor, a friend. I wrote about her last week. She touched so many lives.

Bev Brown was a behind-the-scenes volunteer. She took all the random notes I sent her and put them together into a newsletter. I first met Bev several years ago; we hit it off immediately. I spent hours sitting at her kitchen counter drinking coffee and talking. We had so much in common. She was a very talented artist and an amazing human being.

I am sharing here a poem from the Northumbria Community’s Celtic Daily Prayer.  They are gentle and wise, and perhaps will speak to your heart, as they have to mine.

Do not hurry
as you walk with grief;
it does not help the journey.

Walk slowly,
pausing often:
do not hurry
as you walk with grief.

Be not disturbed
by memories that come unbidden.

 Swiftly forgive:
and let Christ speak for you
unspoken words.
Unfinished conversations
will be resolved in Him.
Be not disturbed.

Be gentle with the one
who walks with grief.
If it is you,
be gentle with yourself.

 Swiftly forgive;
walk slowly,
pausing often.

Take time, be gentle
as you walk with grief.