Sadly, we all know at least one suffering soul. And we hurt for them. Our hearts break seeing them go through death, heartbreak, disease, and other pains of life. We desperately want to fix things for them. But the reality is that we cannot. The best thing we can do for them is love them persistently; however, sometimes we don't know exactly what to say. This letter is to a suffering soul, from a fellow sufferer expressing feelings that don't come easily to the mouth.
Hey you,
First of all, I want to say that I am so sorry that you have to go through this. I know it is not easy by any means. I am so proud of you for being brave through this. I know that I could never fully understand what you are going through, but I will try. And I will be there for you. Sometimes I am not the best with words and its not that I don't care, its just that I don't know what to say. I would never intentionally say something to hurt you. Know that I love you, but most importantly our Heavenly Father loves you. He wants to comfort you and draw you near to His heart during this time, but you have to be willing to let Him work His ways. I realize that this is easier said than done. I know that if you choose to draw near to God and let Him use your heart, it won't be an easy process, but I can guarantee that it will be worth it in the end.
I want you to know that you are stronger than you feel. Others draw strength from you and that is a beautiful thing. They see what you are going through and look up to you. I believe that is part of why God lets us suffer, because strangers become family through it. Think of all the people you have met because of this, would you trade going through this for their friendship? I wouldn't trade you for the world and I would take all of this pain from you if I could.
I understand that the holidays can be a lonely time. Seeing all of your friends and family so happy, and you just can not fully get that right now. Please don't let other people's happiness make you bitter. You are going through this for a reason and you are going to come out a better person in the end. You've told me that sometimes you just want to give up. I know you are tired of fighting and you are tired of having to deal with all of this. I know it is just too much sometimes. But you can't give up. You are too loved to just give up and you have people counting on you. You have fought too hard to give up now. Don't you want to see what else God is going to do in your life through this? After all, joy wouldn't be as joyful without pain.
I am always, always here for you. Even if I am busy, I am still here. I would drop everything if you just say the words. If you want to talk about it, I am here. If you don't want to talk about it, I am still here. Through it all. Your pain is my pain. It hurts me to see you go through this. I pray for you constantly; and I want you to know that you mean so much to me and so many other people. I have learned so much from you and I wouldn't be the person I am today if it weren't for you. Please let me know if there is anything I can do for you. I would literally do anything.
I know that the depths of your pain are unexplainable. You hurt in so many different ways. One of the most comforting thoughts to me is the fact that Jesus, the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, suffered here on earth too. He understands your pain, He suffered a great deal. Talk to Him about it. Even if you are angry at Him.
Lastly, I know it is hard sometimes, but try to look to the bright side. You are surrounded by people who love you and care about you so much. They want you to talk to them and tell them how you feel. I promise we will do our best to make you feel better. Think of all the blessings you have. Think about puppies and good food, that always makes me feel better. Most of all, never forget that you are loved dearly by your family and friends and Jesus. Life wouldn't be the same without you.
With love,
A fellow sufferer
