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Four Words to Ease the Pain
I’ve been thinking about death lately. My mother-in-law passed away at age 90 last week. My sister’s mother-in-law passed away at age 98 about six weeks earlier, and we attended her memorial service last weekend. The six-year anniversary of our daughter’s death at age 30 is approaching. And my wife and I recently attended a support group for parents who have lost children. Thus, I find myself contemplating the difference between the passing of a senior citizen and the passing of a young person.
The passing of an elderly person seems to be easier on the immediate family because the deceased had lived a long, full life, and in some cases, her passing may bring to an end any discomfort or struggles that may have plagued her. Her loss, naturally, is still difficult for the loved ones left behind, but they might be able to console themselves with their memories, and they might be grateful for their shared experiences.
The loss of a young person like our Maria, however, is usually more difficult. Maria did not get to live a “long, full life.” She didn’t fall in love and get married, she didn’t have children, and she never had the opportunity to fully use the gifts God had given her.
