Heaven's Postcards helps parents cope with the grief of losing a child

If I ever have a rough day, I try to remind myself that I am truly blessed.  Things could always be worse.  I have many things to be grateful for...my children, my husband, my family, our home, etc.  I have also been very fortunate to never have lost anyone very close to me. 

One unimagineable tragedy would be the loss of a child.  How do you go on with life after losing a child?  I had the opportunity to interview Kim Todd, author of Heaven's Postcards, and a mother who lost her son in car crash.  Kim's book talks about how she dealt with this great loss and how God helped her cope. 

Here is the interview with Kim Todd:

Q: I personally can't imagine experiencing such a loss.  For families faced with this, what is your suggestion for the first step toward recovery?
A: TRUST GOD.  He actually loves our children more than we do.   Be Patient with yourself. Don’t be afraid to cry, it’s a good release.

Q: What different ways do people cope?
A: Some seek counseling or talk with friends, some withdraw indefinitely, and others turn to alcohol or drugs which doesn’t really help.  Alcohol and drugs prolong the healing process. Being around other people is the best way to cope.

Q: How do you respect another’s needs when you have such great needs of your own?
A: I know that I am not alone.  It helps to talk with others who have gone through a similar experience.  You realize what you are feeling is normal and learn how to cope with the overwhelming emotions

Q: They say some families grow stronger while others drift apart.  How does this happen? 
A: Our mind plays tricks on us.  Death makes us angry and you tend to withdraw from others. Sometimes you blame a family member and think they don’t understand the way you feel.

Q: How can a family work together to help each other cope, rather than drift apart? 
A: Talk to each other.  Be honest and don’t be overly sensitive to what the other is saying. Listen and don’t react.  Get out of the house. Sit or Walk in a park or take a scenic drive as often as possible together.

For more information on Kim and Heaven's Postcards please visit her website at www.authorkimtodd.com.