When I was a resident Chaplain at the University of Kentucky, I would often baptize those who were dying. On one occasion, I was given the task of baptizing an aborted child that did not make it through labor. I was given a small fetus in an empty room. This child was not much bigger than my thumb. I remember wondering what this infant's mother looked like and who was the father. What were they going through? I wondered who was helping them through their grief.
This fetus was given to me, so I could baptize him/her before further burial procedures were to take place. In the back of my mind, I began to imagine what this child's life would have been like if this child had of lived. What baring on the parents would all this create in their heart and in their soul?
There are several places for a person to find comfort and healing. Your local Hospice Care Program has several support groups with qualified therapists to assist you in sharing your grief. Your local hospital has social workers and chaplains to guide you through this difficult time. Also, hospital social workers have a list of groups in the community to give you in finding a caring group to share your grief. Your Minister and friends will help you too. And, if you have a pet, they grieve to. Give them attention. They will draw close to you.
In the meantime, be good to yourself. Eat right. Take walks. Take time to listen to your heart recall memories of your loved one who has passed on into a deeper place in your heart only your soul can embrace. There are several books on grief. Often we heal in the deepest parts of our being before we notice it physically. This journey into the heart is a predictable one. I would like to recommend my book "Integrating the Feminine Spirit: Returning to the Womb of Creation." This is a book about the journey into one's heart and soul.
This event took place over 16 years ago. I can still remember this event as though it were yesterday. I was alone with this fetus and nurse. I did anoint this child. In a way, I believe the child anointed me as well. This child, to this day, has left an image in my mind and heart that lives and breathes through my recalling this story. This child has left an imprint on my Soul and shown me a way into Eternity.
Samuel Oliver, author of, "What the Dying Teach Us: Lessons on Living"
About the Author:
Sam Oliver is the author of several books and articles on grief and loss. You can find out more about Sam here;
http://www.soulandspirit.org
Imprints on the Soul
