Chapter 10

This chapter talks about the new feelings of emptiness, loneliness, and isolation.

Hmmm, not so much, for me. Friends and family have been very good at looking after me. In quite the opposite of being suprised by isolation I have craved alone time. More I think is a reaction to the wild and crazy school year I had but some because I just didn't want to answer "How are you?" with any honesty. It was easier to go places and attend church when I didn't need to engage but in lighter conversation.

I think the point of the chapter is that while I might be lonely I am not alone. I not only have my friends but I have the Triune God who knows loss and grief and not only stands with me in my loss but is my primary source of comfort and peace.

Even without these being a difficulty the writing can still make me weep both for those moments when I recognize my grief and for those when I see it in others.


There is a reason that Psalm 23 is one of the best known scripture passages. I've hummed my way through several hymn and choir anthem versions on the way to deciding that sometimes it's best to quote from the source and because I can't think of the composer of the one I love the best. ;*P

Psalm 32, NIV

The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not be in want. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he restores my soul. He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and love (mercy) will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.