I #givethanks today for the grieving process. When my world tipped upside down 34 years ago, I prayed my grief would be taken from my heart. I would have a good moment, hour, or day, but those good moments, hours, and days inevitably passed and the crushing grief returned. My two little boys were sunshine in those dark, lonely days. I asked a trusted church leader why grief was so hard if it was God’s Plan for His children. He said, “Charlene, grief is in direct response to the feelings of love you shared with your husband.” Now, 34 years later, that time of year brings a pang of grief. I once prayed that the grief would go away and stay away, but I now allow it to wash over me in gratitude that I am blessed to remember that life and that time. And I #givethanks for the compassion and empathy I have for those going through their own challenges. For those experiencing difficult things right now, know you are loved. As the scriptures say, “This, too, shall pass.” May God bless you.