Grieving invites the reader to understand the universality of grief, its various expressions, and the depth of emotion experienced within it. In grieving the loss of loved ones, jobs, reputations, and numerous other things, we may begin to doubt the faith that has upheld us throughout our trials. In doubting, though, we open ourselves to further growth by inviting God to share our pain and sorrow and to help us in renewing ourselves in Him.
In the first part of this guide, called "The Retreat," author J. Catherine Sherman offers a deeper understanding of the painful emotions that develop as part of grief, the facets of the journey through the grieving process, and the acceptance that our anger at God may be more typical than we realize. The second part, called "The Journey," presents an examination of the process of grieving, moving through anger, doubt, trust, and eventual surrender to the situation as it stands. Depicted in vivid imagery, these passages transport readers to a place of meditative exploration of grief.
Through thoughtful reflections and resolutions, we are able to take steps into understanding the struggle while moving beyond the initial anger with God or doubt of His love for us and our loved ones.