When Life Does Not Give You a Happy Ending

Maria V. Gallagher has found a new way to cope when good things come to an end.

I must admit, I have never been good at endings. I still recall standing outside of my high school, waiting for the procession in to our gymnasium for our graduation ceremony. I could not shake the thought that this would be the last time my classmates and I would all be together. A wave of sadness enveloped me in that moment.

It was much the same a few months earlier, on the final night of our high school production of the musical Fiddler on the Roof. I dreaded hanging up the costume I wore as Golde, the mother of the fictional brood. I wanted to occupy the stage forever, and I was inconsolable in my grief.

I recently had to mark another ending—another sweet phase of life coming to a close. On an intellectual level, I knew it had to happen—but that did not lessen the pain of goodbye.

Perhaps you are facing a similar situation—a job has come to an end … a friend has moved … a beloved relative has passed away. Whatever the situation, there is no going back—the only path available is forward.

As you face your transition, please know that you are in my prayers. I have faced the cross of loss, and I know how difficult it can be. I have found some solace, though, following this four-step plan:

Step One: Turn to Christ.

I recently viewed a video online which spoke of Jesus’ great sensitivity. One can imagine that, during His earthly life, He was sensitive to change. Yet, He realized that change was inevitable and that blessings could be hidden in the heartache.

Step Two: Turn to Mary.

When you stop and think about it, it is clear that the Blessed Mother knew how to adapt to changing circumstances: an unexpected pregnancy, childbirth in humble circumstances, a sudden flight to Egypt. Indeed, Mary might have been the ultimate “change artist” and serves as a wonderful role model for us.

Step Three: Journal your feelings.

Just getting your thoughts down on paper can be incredibly therapeutic. You can write a serenade to your old life, while welcoming the new tracks of the life yet to come. A month from now, six months from now, you may look back on your writing and see how much you have grown.

Step Four: Adopt an attitude of gratitude.

Thank God for the many blessings which still exist in your life. These precious gifts can keep you going in the darkest of times.

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Whatever the situation, there is no going back—the only path available is forward. #catholicmom

Some seasons of life are just more somber than others. In the brutal chill of winter, it can be difficult to recall the warmth of a sun-kissed summer. But God, the Master Artist, is always in control, creating a tapestry whose beauty we may only fully understand in the next life. Until then, we rest in faith, knowing that our Heavenly Father truly does know best.

Copyright 2023 Maria V. Gallagher
Images: Canva