My youngest daughter Angela wrote the following about her mom on September 28, the six-month anniversary of Nanci’s homegoing. March 28 marked the one-year anniversary since Nanci relocated to Heaven. This week our family has been all together—both our daughters Karina and Angela and their husbands, and all five of our grandsons.

A year ago tomorrow, on March 28, 2022, I said goodbye—for now—to my wife, Nanci, who was also my partner, soulmate, and best friend. The pilgrimage of grief, though full of learning and enrichment, is one I would gladly exchange to have my wife with me again. And yet…not really, because I recognize God’s sovereignty and love, and His perfect plan, and the fact that my wife is now happier than she has ever been.

Randy Alcorn and Greg Laurie (senior pastor of Harvest Christian Fellowship) had a conversation about Randy’s book Heaven for Kids. In this clip Randy answers the questions: How are things going personally for you as you grieve? Do you see Heaven differently because of your experience of grief? Why should we think deeply about Heaven?

Grieving a loved one’s death is a long, often lonely, always painful process. Four key players stand out in my continued healing journey through grief—the first being my firm belief in the promises of Jesus about our eternal future.

A dad who loved his daughter on Earth is unlikely to love her less when he’s been freed from sin’s grasp and has finally experienced love in a way none of us can before we join God in His presence. It’s hard to know how that will change us—though I’m sure it will. Yet I’m also sure it will be a change for the better and one we’ll enjoy, not regret.

We’ve received many notes from readers over the years, who recently lost or are anticipating the loss of their animals, and are grateful for the perspectives I shared about pets—especially after the deaths of our Dalmatian Moses and our Golden Retriever Maggie.

Please remember that it takes time to reach that place of perspective. Be patient with yourself during this process. It can take three or more years just to get past the fog and confusion of a major loss.

Feeling depressed after such a heartbreaking loss is a normal reaction to the abnormal reality of death in our cursed world. It is one of several stages you may pass through on your way through the “valley of dark shadows.” Learning to lean on your Good Shepherd’s arm through this valley (which, contrary to your current feelings does have an end) will go far in helping you bear your pain. Below, you’ll find several resources that may be a helpful starting point for you.

I can’t imagine the depth of grief you’re experiencing. It must seem as though life has come to a standstill at times, but everyone around you just keeps on living. Grieving is such a long, difficult, and sometimes lonely process.