Having come this far through our loss and grief, we have gained something. A special calm and depth comes to our soul that we have never known before. This calm is not something we wish on anyone because it comes from terrible hurt and pain. Now we are able to smile again – perhaps not as bright and innocent as we once were – but we smile just the same. In losing the innocence we once had, we have gained a compassion and gentle strength that we would never have gained any other way. We now have a unique perspective on pain that we can use to help others. When a person has experienced the kind of pain that seems to steal our souls, we can more compassionately assist those who suffer. When those who have been broken and healed speak to a broken heart it is like feeding a starving child. There is a depth to our words that seems to pour a healing balm into their wounds. We who have felt the pain of grief, who have experienced the pain of loss, are often the best at helping others. It is important to have a good understanding of the stages of grief. Knowing these stages will help you serve those who are in the midst of their grief. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 describes this saying: “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercy and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our trouble, so that we can comfort those who are in any trouble. affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.” We can identify with the pain that others feel, because we too have experienced pain. It may not be exactly like our journey in pain, but the pain is similar next pages will give you some tools to help others work... middle of paper... one may not work for another. The important thing is to be available to the person who is suffering and encourage them to find the things that work and to help her. People tend to fall into ruts. Sometimes this is a good thing. However, it may be that if a person gets stuck in a rut they will not be able to move forward in their grief journey. It is important to continue to make progress and grieve the loss. If a person seems stuck, encourage them to try something different. This book is full of suggestions on different things to try. Thank you for taking the time to read this resource. My prayer is that it will be used to minister to those who are heartbroken and those whose spirits have been wounded, who feel as if the pain has stolen their soul. May God use you to serve and love them as Christ loved the Church. God bless you, gentle reader.