Holding Grief, Choosing Hope

I’ve been sitting, as many have, with somewhat of a heaviness after the recent events in Sydney, Australia.

Moments like these have a way of cutting through our routines. Even when we’re far away, something inside us pauses. The world feels a little less predictable. A little less safe.

You might notice yourself holding your loved ones closer tonight. Feeling more alert. More emotional. Or strangely numb. None of that is wrong. These are human responses to something deeply confronting.

And yet, even in the midst of this grief and shock, I’m reminded that darkness never has the final word.

We see it in the courage of first responders, in strangers helping strangers, and in the quiet ways people show up for one another when it matters most.

As a person of faith, I hold onto the hope that God is near to the broken-hearted — present in the fear, the tears, and the unanswered questions. Hope doesn’t mean ignoring the pain. It means trusting that love, compassion, and light are still at work, even here.

At Samway Consulting, our thoughts and prayers are with the victims, their families, and all who have been affected.

If this week’s events have unsettled you, be gentle with yourself. Reach out. You don’t have to carry this alone.

God bless you. God bless Australia!