The Other Side of Yet

To get further understanding, I looked up all the instances of “yet” and “nevertheless” in the Bible and was floored by how many times God used the worst things to resurrect the amazing things

It may feel ridiculous to talk about gratitude in the midst of tragedy and hardship, but it’s another way to pop out of that ocean and grasp the oxygen. It’s another way, as you attempt to steady the ground you’re standing on, that you can begin to survive.

In hard and harsh circumstances, victories are measured on a different scale.

You were the little girl we always dreamed about and prayed for, and we feel so grateful that God has trusted your life and legacy in our hands Note: Ditto with Abie & Benny, except they are above & beyond what I dreamed & prayed for, in the best, most awesome way. Same in regard to Rena as a spouse and partner

While there may not be one plan, there is a course

Don’t expect any one person in your life to have the answers you seek. No one has your playbook.

“Nothing is life and death except life and death.

“wear the world like a loose garment.”

Be bold enough to stand in gratitude for what you do have; for what is left and what is to come

It took me a while, but I eventually learned that I didn’t have to choose between my grief and my joy. They will forever live side by side. My brother, Noel, wisely said to me once, as I sat on a balcony watching the waves of the ocean, “Both can be true, Michelle. You can find joy and love and peace and still hold all of the love and pain and memories for Gabrielle. All at once.”

Acknowledge the loss but celebrate the signs of life