I share Melanie's post here to continue to promote understanding of all those deeply grieving, in the spirit of Romans 12:15; 15:1-3; I Corinthians 12:25-26; Galatians 6:2, etc.
I'd like to make it clear that I feel like she is having an even rougher time than Karen and I right now. At least, I don't know if I'd describe our current state in terms quite so severe (but check back in another week or so!). But I can very definitely see where she's coming from, and wholeheartedlyagree with the "straw/ camel's back" concept (similar to the "spoons" and "cup of stress" models I have shared and alluded to before).
I'm convinced that very concept is the reason we simply can't handle the stress we used to; I have a shorter fuse, a more imperative need for times of rest, am far more easily overwhelmed, and tend to presume more on the sheer mercy and understanding of those around me than I did just eighteen months ago.
I'm sure you can't always tell that from my FB posts, but I am just not the same ol' Ernie I was before Levi's departure. (Certainly NOT saying His Grace is not sufficient! Just saying my personal sensitivity settings have been dialed WAY up!)
I also feel the need to say I do not endorse Henri Nouwen (see quote at the end) in any way. Yes, he had a gift for saying thoughtful things very well, but I feel strongly that he subscribed to false doctrine and wholly embraced and promoted contemplative mysticism, which I believe is spiritually dangerous and occultic.
https://thelifeididntchoose.com/2017/11/30/what-else-can-i-do/