the darkness of bereavement

walking with grief 
-- a reading we will use for my grandfather's funeral this week

do not hurry
as you walk with grief;
it does not help the journey.

walk slowly,
pausing often:
do not hurry
as you walk with grief.


be not disturbed
by memories that come unbidden.
swiftly forgive;
and let Christ speak for you
unspoken words.
unfinished conversation
will be resolved in Him.
be not disturbed.

be gentle with the one
who walks with grief.
if it is you,
be gentle with yourself.
swiftly forgive;
walk slowly,
pausing often.

take time, be gentle
as you walk with grief.

from Celtic Daily Prayers: Prayers and Readings from the Northumbria Community, pp. 225-26