Life has a way of throwing us into unexpected crossroads, where joy and sorrow collide, leaving us searching for meaning. May is typically a month bursting with flowers, hope, and new beginnings. For my family, it’s a season of celebration—our two daughters, niece, and nephew are all graduating this month, each stepping boldly into their futures. Their dreams and possibilities feel boundless, a reminder of life’s promise. Yet, in the midst of this joy, we were struck by a sudden loss. My brother-in-law passed away a few days ago, unexpectedly, and far too quickly.
The whirlwind of emotions is overwhelming. We’re now juggling plans for graduations, Mother’s Day, and our anniversary while preparing to fly out of town for a few short days to mourn together. The weight of grief sits heavily, and I find myself grappling with big questions: What is the purpose of life? Why are we here? How can everything change in mere moments? When death brushes so close, it casts a shadow of doubt and sadness, threatening to dim the light of hope.
But this blog is about hope—because even in the darkest moments, hope is what carries us forward. I’ve learned that hope isn’t about ignoring pain or pretending everything is okay. It’s about finding glimmers of light in the chaos, holding space for both grief and gratitude. Today, I want to share a few ways we can nurture hope, even when life feels like too much.
1. Embrace the Duality of Life
Life is rarely just one thing—it’s messy, beautiful, and painful all at once. Watching our graduates chase their dreams while mourning a loved one reminds me that joy and sorrow often coexist. Allow yourself to feel both. Cry for the loss, but also smile at the memories. Celebrate the milestones, even if your heart aches. Embracing this duality helps us find balance and keeps hope alive.
2. Lean on Your People
In times of overwhelm, connection is a lifeline. Reach out to family, friends, or even a kind stranger who listens. We’re not meant to navigate life’s crossroads alone yet the world wants us to believe we are alone. Sharing stories about my brother-in-law with loved ones has brought comfort, and planning celebrations with family has reminded me of the love that surrounds us. Hope grows in community.
3. Find Meaning in Small Moments
When big questions about life’s purpose feel unanswerable, look to the small moments. A hug from my daughters, a quiet moment reflecting on our anniversary, or even the simple act of writing this blog—these are the threads that weave meaning into our days. Hope doesn’t always come from grand revelations; it’s often found in the ordinary. In fact my hubby Dave always says “it’s the little things that inspire and keep us going”.
4. Hold Space for Healing
Grief can feel like a storm, but it’s okay to let it move through you. Give yourself permission to pause, to rest, to feel. Healing doesn’t mean forgetting—it means carrying love forward in new ways. As we prepare to honor my brother-in-law’s memory, I’m reminded that hope is also about trusting that time will soften the sharp edges of loss.
5. Choose Hope, Again and Again
Hope is a choice, one we make even when it’s hard. It’s choosing to believe that there’s still beauty to be found, that love endures, and that life, with all its unpredictability, is worth living. For me, hope looks like celebrating our graduates’ bright futures, cherishing moments with my family, and writing this blog to connect with you.
If you’re at a crossroads, feeling the weight of life’s highs and lows, know that you’re not alone. My hope for you is that you find peace in the small moments, strength in your connections, and the courage to keep choosing hope. Life may shift in an instant, but so can our perspective. Let’s hold on to the light, together.
With love and hope,
Amber of Auburn Raven
Amber has a BA in Psychology and a Masters Degree in Human Resources. She spent 9 years working in youth and multi-generational ministry where she focused on making faith fun. Her book, The Beginner’s Guide to God, is for anyone wondering how to have a relationship with God. She is the author of the blog AuburnRaven – Balancing Faith, Family & Fun. She has a passion for introducing people to God’s love and biblically equipping parents and teachers so children can grow in faith. Her journey, tips and lessons can be found on her blog www.AuburnRaven.com. You can connect with her on Pinterest, Instagram and Facebook.
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