I’ve learned that grief is not my enemy—it is my friend. This insight hasn’t mitigated or softened the pain of my wife Sandy’s absence from me, nor the loneliness and emptiness I experience every day when reflecting on her love, friendship, companionship, support, encouragement, and beautiful smile. However, I’ve discovered that the more visceral these feelings, the greater the opportunity to draw closer to the Lord in the midst of my anguish. I’ve learned that in those moments, He has me exactly where He wants me—pouring out my heart and tears before Him and asking for His help to get me through.