Comforting – When Words Don’t Come

There I sat side by side. Shoulder to shoulder. Tightly squeezing. Hugging my heart out. The mood is solemn. The atmosphere glum.

Tears flowed. I hate to see his pain. I hate to see his heart ache so. He’s only eleven. Why does pain come to the young? Can’t they be protected from it?

He had purchased 3 chicks several months ago and had taken such good care. One died. We were left with two. He continued to care. Providing. Protecting.

He begged for more. Every week. Sometimes every day. Dad finally caved. We brought home 3 new peeps just a week ago. They were doing well. Growing. Eating.

He decided it was time for them to be moved outdoors and set up a place for them. Come morning light only 1 was there. Outside of their provided space. They saw large birds, possibly hawks circling the area.

They are gone. 2 chicks down. Only 1 remains.

I so desperately wanted them to reappear. So I wouldn’t have to see him sad. He loves his animals. They bring him joy.

They haven’t appeared. I believe they’re gone.

There are few words one can say. To console. To comfort. My words weren’t there. I just sat and hugged.

I so desperately wanted something to say. But it’s okay. It’s okay to not speak. It’s okay if words don’t come. Sometimes just a hug is the best you can give to let someone know you care. Just knowing that someone cares can be what they need.

I know many of you have been through difficult situations. I’m not even beginning to compare your pain of losing a loved one to losing a small chick. This is not a comparison. It just made me realize the ache you feel for someone when you don’t know what to say.

Maybe you have been in a place with someone who is grieving.  Let them know they are loved but don’t expect to be able to comfort their pain. Hug them. Tell them you care.

Only one can truly comfort and His name is Jesus. We can only comfort through Him. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God. 

I thank God for His promise to comfort us so that we can comfort. Because I, in myself have no idea what to say or do.

Psalm 119:76 May your unfailing love be my comfort,according to your promise to your servant.

Blessing and love,

Melanie