Knowing WHERE he is and WHO he is with changes the impact of the stages of grief. There is an underlying joy that we have as Christians when our loved ones ascend. I hope that with your platform you can share and expand that knowledge so others can see Christ in you. You two are doing a great job. Just take each day as it comes and stay in the word. The word expands and grows in us when we go through these moments. Much love to you both and your family.
Losing a parent is the most bizarre mix of feelings ever. Like Andrew said, there has been 20 days that he has been on this planet without a father. I lost my Dad 6 years ago and I so felt that statement. It's a whole different feeling that no one really thinks about until it happens. God bless you and your family ❤️
Shawn, I love how you refer to him as dad, and Andrew’s family as yours. It’s really beautiful. These days a lot of people, including myself, don’t see their in-laws as their own family and would never call them them mom & dad. It’s really refreshing to see
That is what I really enjoyed too. How Shawn is really part of the family. They are good human beings. Mortal life is brief even though at times it doesn't feel as brief.
I never called my in laws by their first names. Out of respect, I called them mom and dad. And my hubby called my mom and dad that. My daughter-in-law doesn’t. She calls us by our first names. My daughter’s husband calls us mom and dad. So weird.
My husband called my parents mom and dad.. my father passed a few years ago but he always calls my mom, mom!! His parents are no longer with us. My daughter in law called us by our names ( a little uncomfortable) because we loved her like our own . At other times she would call me Momma Lyle which I Loved!!!!
My husband calls my parents mom and dad too. He lost his dad when he was 11, so when we met, it wasn’t long and my dad stepped in the role for him. And his mom has made some choices that have kept us at arms reach…sooo my mom kinda helps that role too..
Such a great pod today! Seeing the vulnerability from you, Andrew, and the quiet, supportive love from you, Shawn, was powerful. Being up front and forthright about how your relationship with Jesus has been your North Star was a blessing. Andrew, you will now be able to shepherd Shawn through this process when the time comes for her in ways that you never would have known before. Give yourself permission to grieve as long as you need. We love you as part of our big giant family of God.
I am in the trenches with you. I lost my 27 yo son almost 3 months ago. Parents should not have to bury their children. Hardest thing I have ever had to deal with and I’m struggling to make sense of it. It helps knowing he is with my mom, his NeNe, in heaven. Love you guys and your family. Praying for continued strength as you all navigate through this change in life.
Shawn, kudos to you for quietly allowing Andrew to just speak uninterrupted about his dad, and sharing your love of family and faith. Andrew, the hurt of losing your dad, as your one friend mentioned, will never go away. You do learn to live through it. You already expressed how his legacy will live through you. His most important example was that of his love for our Living Lord. Hold tight to your relationship with Christ Jesus. Dig into the scriptures so that your own children will have the opportunity to live with their grandpa's love of God through you and Shawn. Missing my dad since 2016.
I lost my one and only child, my daughter on Dec 27, 2022. The same day as your dad. They both we to meet our Savior. I cannot understand how people can do life without Jesus. My daughter was disabled and I was her caretaker. She needed care with every aspect of his life. The pain. Is real and raw. And I am in the waves of emotions astheu come and go. No one person is the same and everyone grieves differently. I have peace that I will see her again one day because and through Jesus and I too am his child. In the mean time I have to trust God and have faith in him. For his plans & ways are always greater. In the hurt of not having her here I know that God is Not done with me and looking forward to eventually getting see the full picture of what God is going to do with me. He promised to see us through to a victorious end. God is good and I am so thankful I have many pictures & memories to get me through the next part of my journey. Thank you for sharing your story. I find it helpful when you talk about that person & your journey
I can't tell you how amazing this video is. 1. Seeing how supportive a spouse can be in such difficult times is beautiful. Watching Shawn in the way she loves and respects Andrew shows me what I have been missing. 2. Hearing Andrew work through his grief in such a thoughtful way gives me so much hope. That breakdown he takes on each statement is so emotional and yet perfect in its connection to the Lord. 3. The respect the two of them show for family, whether it be siblings or in-laws, is absolutely breathtaking. Having the ability to love and grieve with everyone in your family is a blessing and I truly enjoyed listening to you two talking about the way you did this. You are a beautiful couple, and God will continue to bless your family.
Faith is a positive thing and what got me through the death of my Dad 7 years ago. The day my Dad died we were with him when he took his last breath, we had our tears for sure but after his last breath my brother and I stood at the end of his hospital bed and all we could do was smile. Dad was in heaven with his Lord and was in no more pain. Now we are going through my Mom’s illness with congestive heart failure waiting for the Lord to take her home. We don’t know when that will be. We are just thankful for everyday we have with her. She is 87 and has lived a wonderful life. My prayers are with you and your family and know your faith will get you through.
Andrew, you are so eloquent with your words, and you are both mourning well! What an incredible testimony of the goodness of God in the midst of loss! You will be reunited in heaven one day! The tears and sadness of this life is temporary, but for all who know Jesus, we have the hope of eternity in heaven! Thank you for being light in the darkness! Glory to His name!!!
I lost my dad unexpectedly in 2021 - this episode was hard but so good to listen to. I have always felt like I wasn’t grieving the right way, but hearing your thoughts and feelings is comforting knowing I am not alone. Andrew, the days will get easier .. you will be able to talk about your dad without tears every time, the sadness will turn to more smiles and laughter. I try to think how lucky I am to have someone like my dad to miss, to have had his love and guidance for the years he was here and to know he lived his life until his last moment. ❤️
Watching this three weeks after I lost my dad. Thank you for being so vulnerable and sharing your thoughts and how you're processing everything. How blessed are we to know that our dads are in heaven with Jesus. That is what has given me peace through this sad time.
I am very sorry for your loss. The number of deaths “unexpectedly “ or “ suddenly” that has happened in the last year and a half or two is beyond alarming. They all seem to have a commonality. May the American public wise up to what is being inflicted upon us by a company or two who are liability free.
Andrew I lost my dad when I was 29 he was 56. It has been 14 years he’s been gone. I want you to know it never feels “back to normal” it’s just a new normal. The stages of grief come at different times for different people. At the 2 year mark I actually had to take a low dose anti depressant because grief was so overwhelming. I had never need any type of medication. It shook me. All that to say don’t be afraid to process everything you need to and be aware that it’ll come in waves.
The Lord is good and His mercy endures forever!! I lost my mom to cancer 3 years ago. I love your perspectives on all of these things. My favorite memory of the morning of my mom’s passing was her last breath here and the next being with her Savior!!
The following is the most profound description of grief, & what to expect moving forward, that I’ve ever read, & I share it with *anyone* who needs to hear it. It’s long, but very worth the read!…. Someone on reddit wrote the following heartfelt plea online: "My friend just died. I don't know what to do." A lot of people responded. Then there's one old guy's incredible comment that stood out from the rest that might just change the way we approach life and death. This is what the old man wrote: "Alright, here goes. I'm old. What that means is that l've survived (so far) and a lot of people I've known and loved did not. I've lost friends, best friends, acquaintances, co-workers, grandparents, parents, relatives, teachers, mentors, students, neighbors, and a host of other folks. I have no children, and I can't imagine the pain it must be to lose a child. But here's my two cents: I wish I could say you get used to people dying. I never did. I don't want to. It tears a hole through me whenever somebody I love dies, no matter the circumstances. But I don't want it to "not matter". I don't want it to be something that just passes. My scars are a testament to the love and the relationship that I had for and with that person. And if the scar is deep, so was the love. So be it. Scars are a testament to life. Scars are a testament that I can love deeply and live deeply and be cut, or even gouged, and that I can heal and continue to live and continue to love. And the scar tissue is stronger than the original flesh ever was. Scars are a testament to life. Scars are only ugly to people who can't see. As for grief, you'll find it comes in waves. When the ship is first wrecked, you're drowning, with wreckage all around you. Everything floating around you reminds you of the beauty and the magnificence of the ship that was, and is no more. And all you can do is float. You find some piece of the wreckage and you hang on for a while. Maybe it's some physical thing. Maybe it's a happy memory or a photograph. Maybe it's a person who is also floating. For a while, all you can do is float. Stay alive. In the beginning, the waves are 100 feet tall and crash over you without mercy. They come 10 seconds apart and don't even give you time to catch vour breath. All you can do is hang on and float. After a while, maybe weeks, maybe months. you'll find the waves are still 100 feet tall, but they come further apart. When they come, they still crash all over you and wipe you out. But in between, you can breathe, you can function. You never know what's going to trigger the grief. It might be a song, a picture, a street intersection, the smell of a cup of coffee. It can be just about anything…and the wave comes crashing. But in between waves, there is life. Somewhere down the line, and it's different for everybody, you find that the waves are only 80 feet tall. Or 50 feet tall. And while they still come, they come further apart. You can see them coming. An anniversary, a birthday, or Christmas, or landing at 0'Hare. You can see it coming, for the most part, and prepare yourself. And when it washes over you, you know that somehow you will, again, come out the other side…Soaking wet, sputtering, still hanging on to some tiny piece of the wreckage, but you’ll come out. Take it from an old guy. The waves never stop coming, and somehow you don't really want them to. But you learn that you’ll survive them. And other waves will come. And you'll survive them too. If you're lucky, you'll have lots of scars from lots of loves. And lots of shipwrecks" ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
This is the most important part and also natural way of grieving. Communication and acknowledgement of how you feel and expressing your emotions. The grief process is a true reflection and you will experience them all, over and over again. The first 5 years are the toughest, the first year is the worst. Keep your communication with each other first and do not feel guilty for how long you grieve.
I also had a wonderful godly father. He was apart of my daily life. He has been gone 9 years. I still have times that I miss him so badly that I breakdown and cry. Christmas is especially hard because he loved Christmas. He will always be a part of me. I know that he is with his Lord and Savior. My daughter named her son after my father. I wish my dad could see him. I also had a dream of my father talking to me two days after he died. I think that is Gods comforting Holy Spirit. As a Christian, God provides the comforter.
You can't overmemorialize your dad, Andrew! He is more alive then ever in heaven! Keep letting your heart speak of you dad and bless his life! Thank you for sharing! It blessed me! 💞🙏
Beautiful. Thank you. I lost my dad suddenly at 64 many years ago and I’m still cycling grief; as others have said in the phrases you hear, in memories and so much more. Even smell. My dad had a huge old oak desk in his office and I requested it when the day came and received it. But I could never use it despite my efforts. Each time I opened a drawer I smelled his after shave scent. So I sat beside his desk, at my smaller desk for many years. He sat beside every day of my life for many years. May God continue to richly bless you and your family. ❤
This was beautiful. Andrew you do not need to apologize for your emotions. Own them and talk all you want about your dad. Your feelings are your own and no one should judge that. Peace and prayers to you and your family.
I’m watching this and feeling so grateful for my husband who stood beside me and comforted me while I ordered my mother’s ventilation to be shut off yesterday morning after she was declared brain dead from an aneurysm. I’m so sorry for your loss Andrew and Shawn. Our angels will make heaven a little sweeter.
You earned a new guardian angel! I know Andrew mentioned how great of a dad and leader he was, but that leading doesn’t stop. He’s still looking over you and leading you ❤️
The strangest things will cause you grief and angst for as long as you need them to be there. I lost my Dad when I was 9.... and my Mom when I was 56. They were and continue to be very different kinds of grief. You are allowed to feel whatever you need to feel to make it from day to day.... don't let anyone force you to think any differently. My sincere condolences to you both and your family. Life isn't always easy... we learn to navigate as best we can. Your path through grief is your own. Thank you for tackling a very difficult situation.
Andrew & Shawn, Thank you for being soooooo raw and real. We need folks with your balanced perspective in moving generations forward with technology on platforms like this if we are to be able to reach the world! This platform is exactly that! You both are a LIVING testimony of the faith and courage of ppl like Guy East tilling dry soil where someone else likely planted, watered, fertilized and/or harvested him to be the foundation for your legacy after him. I love that while we all have choices in life no matter our lot- we can CHOOSE TO CHANGE to become a legacy with whatever God has for each of us. We just have to ASK. SEEK. KNOCK ✊ and he will provide a Guy or Andrew or Shawn or Me ☺️ or anyone to pour into. God bless you 2! You touch my heart more than words express.
So sorry about your dad Andrew but like you said God Is Good . And heaven got amazing man he is singing and watching your family and your his amazing bride . Prayers to your wonderful family.
I heard a pastor say when his dad died. A quick death is GOD’S kiss upon the soul. It gives me great comfort. My heart was broken when my dad died at 57 like your dad. My mother suffered so long I could really appreciate the quick death upon the soul. Your family will be in my prayers.🙏❤️
Andrew, I am so deeply sorry. I feel your pain because our family went through something very similar. Sending you prayers for God’s complete comfort and peace. Cling to your wonderful memories for they will see you through the years. You will always feel the pain but God will enable you to manage the grief through the years.
I am so sorry for your loss. You have an amazing extended family. I lost two male family friends with the same heart situation. We were told it was one of the strange side effects of the virus injection. I rejoice with you that your father as well as my dear friends are in the presence of the Lord. You both are so precious and I love all that you represent. I will keep you in my prayer.
Andrew there's no right or wrong way to mourn. Do what you are moved to do. Thank you, for sharing your most inner thoughts, and feelings, as you process , such an enormous loss. 🙏❤️🙏
I am so sorry for your loss, it is extremely hard to go through. I lost my Mom in 2012. I miss her so much when Spring flowers bloom but knowing she is in Heaven with the Lord is such a Blessing. God Bless you. You are in my prayers.
I have to add one more note, Shawn is right. For 14 years I've vacillated among all of the stages. My life has rebuilt around the grief. But the grief is still there. There are days when the loss of my dad (even though I'll see him again one day!) Is so profound I have a hard time functioning. Then there's days where I'm so happy he has been enjoying Jesus face to face for these 14 years. The hardest is he never met my children. We hold to the hope that one day they will meet at Jesus' feet. But, Andrew and Shawn, give yourselves grace for however you feel at any given moment. There is no one way through this. Tears of sadness are ok, too. Cling like you've never clung before to Jesus. Study, pray, let your raw emotions out to him in prayer. You are all in my prayers daily. I hope my rambling comes across in all love. ❤️
I lost my dad unexpectedly when I was 11, over 20 years ago now. Grief is definitely a fluid continual process, and I have to continually remind myself of that even all this time later. A few years ago, I read somewhere that over time your grief doesn’t get smaller, but your heart continues to grow around that grief. I’ve felt that so much over the years, and clinging to knowing that he’s with Jesus has pulled me through more times than I can count. I’m so sorry for your loss, and I hope you find comfort in remembering your father. ❤
I lost my dad in 1998, in 2028 it will be 30 years, and I still find myself grieving that loss. Anger, depression, resentment that my kids never got to know the most incredible man I was blessed being a part of. It's a real struggle, and I feel like it will be constant. Many blessing on your journey of grief.
That was such a beautiful podcast. I lost my Dad six years ago now. And you couldn’t have been more right on. Thank you for sharing the love of your father with everyone. You are doing a great job! I know this was a long time ago now but that’s okay. I hope you are in an even better place today with your grief. It really is such a beautifully hard thing to go through. Thank you for reminding me ❤
Such a beautiful thing to see the way you are experiencing joy in the midst of all of this very raw grief. That, in and of itself, is such a testimony to the love of Jesus. Oh, what a joy it is to know you will both see your dad again one day in the presence of JESUS. Praying for you both.
I lost my dad 40 years ago and my mother 20 years ago. Your honest, raw grief triggered grief or memory of grief for them. I will never stop missing them.
Hearing about Andrew's dream made me cry. I lost a very close friend in a car accident when he was 27 years old. Close to three weeks after I had the most realistic dream I have ever had. I could hear his voice singing, see in extreme clarity the details of his face and in the middle of the dream I started crying cause I knew it wasn't real and that I would wake up at some point. When I did wake up, I had been crying for a while and my pillow was soaked. I remember thinking, and still to this day feel like, this is such a blessing. It was almost like it was the best last memory I could have of him. It was beautiful and I am grateful for it.
This! Without a doubt was 100% what I needed to hear. My prayer is that you continue to share your Dad's life. Thank you just isn't enough for sharing. Sending you all the peace and comfort for your heart and soul.
Grateful is such a great way to describe your feelings. Having a father that gave you the upbringing and guidance that you had is not a given just because you have kids. Being a great father is a gift to his children. Because of your parents' you are able to enjoy the wonderful life and relationships you currently have.
Yes, you have lot to be thankful for. Loss is hard, but when you're parents are still married it helps make the loss easier and saves you from some heart ache. Thanks for sharing.
My heart aches for you. Loosing a parent is hard and there would be no devastating grief if there was no incredible, huge love!!! I pray the Lord will bless your whole family with peace and comfort. Thank you for your statement that God is good. He is all knowing and the word “coincidence” is not in His vocabulary. Andrew, everything that happened between you and your dad, in the past few months, was part of the Lord’s plan. The most beautiful part of that plan, in this loss stage of our lives, is that we will see our loved ones again! It doesn’t make it any easier for those of us left here on earth, but knowing we will see them again gives us reason to live in partnership with the Lord, so those who have gone before us will be proud. Your dad loves you and is watching over you and your family. Relish in that love as you find a new “normal” in your life. The only people who think there’s a time limit for grief, have never lost a piece of their heart.
My dad died 24 years ago and watching your podcast brought back all that grief again. It never really ends. When you talked about getting angry how other people were just living their lives like nothing happened. I remember going our to a store to pick up something and how mad I got that not everyone was grieving my dad. 24 years later I still remember that so vividly. Things change and get easier I guess but you never get "over" it. A loss like that is too great. I am a Christian as was my dad. I know I will see him again and get that bear hug. I often wonder what people do or how they cope without that hope. I am so sorry for you loss.
Thank you so much for sharing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. As I listened and the tears rolled down my face - I can agree with Shawn- the different stages of grief come and go. I lost my dad in 2010 and things will still pop up and I catch myself crying or angry or confused, etc. Love you all!
I lost my dad about a year ago whos my bestfriend passed at 62. I was in tears this entire episode. This episode meant so much to me because the process is so different for everyone dealing with loss but you opening up about this means so much to so many people. Thank you east fam, stay strong and I’m keeping you guys in my prayers. ❤
Andrew and Shawn - I am so sorry! Your Dad sounds like he was such an awesome man who loved Jesus!! As you guys said, can you imagine when your Dad saw Jesus!! What a homecoming! Please remember there is no right or wrong way to grieve. Give yourself grace and treasure all the beautiful memories you have. It sounds like your Dad did a wonderful job making memories for his family. God's Blessings!!!
Your love for your Dad is very evident. No one really prepares you to lose a parent. I lost my dad in December 2020. He was my hero and I will miss him every day. You were so blessed to have all the wonderful memories of him and to have just spent Christmas with him. May God bless you and continue to heal your grief. Your family is in my prayers daily.
Thank you for sharing your Dad. From what I see, he was BIG force for JOY in this world. He lived and loved hard. And my hope as you walk this new path in life, is that you allow him to come into your life how he can with where he is now. I feel confident he will! You learn to listen and see in a different way traveling through grief. I hope everyday you get better at allowing him in.... Both your Dad and the Savior! You will all be together again sooner than you know!
I agree with Shawn. I have recently lost my sister out of the blue. Very quickly I should say. Its been a couple of years and most days are good and I don't remember what happened but out of the blue I cry. Or I see a picture of her and I get so angry. Sometimes I blow her a kiss other times I just look away. Just when you think you are done processing or grieving you are right back to step one. So what I want to say is that we are all different, we all process at different stages different times. Lets not feel that we grieve in the stages that are put out for us. Lets just grief for us, lets grieve the way we need to in order to be able to move forward in some way.
There is something so beautiful in the grief of loved ones. It’s such a strange process, but that promise of Heaven is what makes it all so beautiful. God Bless you all ❤️
Thank you so much for being so open and sharing. We lost my dad 2 years ago to late onset ALS. His decline was so quick. Thankfully my husband and two children were able to be in the states to be with him. We returned to the mission field a few months later and it still feels like a dream. I started crying when you talked about your dream. I also had a dream about my dad and woke up sobbing because it felt so real and I had to call my mom and tell her about it. I’ll be praying for you and your beautiful family.
Having lost my dad suddenly just 2 years ago.. just feel whatever feelings come that day. It's not a list that you can check off boxes. I'm so sorry for your loss.. sending hugs and prayers to all of you.
Give you all big hugs... Everything your feeling is valid... But thanks for always sharing this process of your grief... I lost my mom last yr but never had a relationship like you did your father.. But she was my mom... And I wish but will never understand the love you shared with your dad & family. Always a joy to watch your videos and burst of laughter...
Hearing your heart through your experience is so valuable. The love and strength in your perspectives is such a beautiful gift that you share. Im grateful for your willingness to share the experience of walking through life. Praying for you and your family. Isn't it beautiful, the ripple effect of others who maybe you have never met, sharing tears of joy through your words and your stories and memories, and the impact it has on others. Thank you for this episode. Thank you for putting content out in the world that builds strength in others.
So sorry for your loss. Grief is a long process. Only time will give you acceptance of no longer having your loved one. Memories will be your most valuable treasure.
My dad died the exact same way, 11 years ago at age 45. I was 24 at the time. Literally would have never imagined in a million years that would be it. 🙏🏽🕊️
I've been blessed as well with my father until I was 48yr.old. But, 42yr old when I lost my mom. No matter how long or little time we have them you will always miss them. Keep active and say his name often. Know his spirit and presence is always with you. Embrace your feeling, it's a process you need to go threw to feel the pain of your loss. Exercise is my key to keeping me balanced and presence for those in my life on earth. Prayers for all of your family as you continue this new phase of life.
I lost my Dad 11years ago he was 68 and my mom 5 years ago she was 72. Dad had cancer so expected and My mom was suddenly of a brain aneurism. I found her in the car. I recognize all the things you are saying and living through. Thank you for this. And the stages of grief are on going, Shawn is so right. I still have the dreams and trigger moments. Grief is a journey ❤️❤️. Sending love and prayers🙏🏻🙏🏻
At 43:20 you mention being perpetually sad - I wanted to share my experience in that losing my father unexpectedly (very similar to how you lost yours) 2 years ago - I had to come to accept that my life will never be as happy as it could be/would be. When my daughter picked up a golf club for the first time, I felt sorrow that my dad wasn't here. When I take her to Disney, I feel pain that he isn't seeing this. When I got my dream job, I couldn't call him. It's not that life can't be good - it's that it's just not the same and never will be. There's always a little cloud and we just carry that with us for the rest of our lives. All the love to you guys.
Andrew from a Christian empath clairvoyant... what a blessing that he came to you in your dream as if to say "hey buddy, im good im here im not leaving. But im good!" Such a beautiful cathartic moment
Shawn is 100% right. The pain, anger, shock and denial will never go away. You just learn how to live with it. My Mom died at the age of 44 and has been gone 24 years now but I still have all those emotions. Just remember your Dad will alway be with you and watching over you.
Yes to all of this!!! Being the "in-law" you just want to help and be there for everyone. I know how it feels, I lost both of my parents in 4 years, my dad in 2018 and my mom in 2021 and then I ended up losing my Father in law not even a year after my mom passed. I was the rock for my husband, sister-in-law and Mother-in-law as well and planned most of his funeral because they could not, I did not want to show my emotions because I knew they needed me but at his wake I lost it when the police department gave their final salute to him and I just could not hold it back. You are never going to get over losing them but it does get easier but you will think of them every day no matter what.
I’m sorry for your families loss. I have been praying for you all during this time. I read about your dad (and know it doesn’t do justice to knowing your dad) and he seems so amazing. You are your dads living legacy, each and everyone of you.
I suddenly lost my Dad last January after Christmas too. I must say that grieving him has been the hardest thing I have ever been 😂through. One year into this, I still cry when I see his picture, hear is voice, feel him holding me. Despite this, time has brought back happy memories and a smile to my face. I know that I will grieve him for the rest of my life but the feelings will turn to good memories and comfort. God bless you and your family as you.grieve your dad! May peace be with you!
I'm sitting here crying as you tell your journey... Losing my dad 7 years ago was the worst day of my life... I'm still grieving it doesn't get easier... Some days you'll be fine other days is a loss.... Big hugs
You grieve as much as you loved. ❤ There isn’t a timeline for grief. I lost my dad in 2015 & I’m still grieving & crying. I miss him so much. Don’t let anyone tell you how long to grieve. You grieve in your own time. I’m so very sorry for your loss.
Andrew i love how you had such a great relationship with your dad. I envy that because i never had that. You're so lucky to have the time you had with him and to have the love of a father. I also love your perspective and how you talked through your emotions. I find that you have a deeper way of thinking and i think you got that from your dad. Because it seems like your dad had a lot of depth and was a visionary. Its so amazing to see how when one person emanates so much good, they can impact so many people. Your dad raised you well. We need more men and fathers like this in the world
Thinking of you guys! I lost my mom when I was really young so I can unfortunately understand what it’s like to lose a parent when they had a lot of life left to live. Grief is complicated, but important to talk about so I’m glad you guys are shedding light on this topic. Continuing to pray for you guys as the weeks & months pass by!
Personally, the way I focused on dealing with the grief initially when my dad died was to keep in mind what he would have wanted for me and my family. I know that he definitely thought about how he would be remembered, since he changed his mind not long before he died about being cremated and having us scatter his ashes at sea. He instead asked us to find a cemetary cremation plot near family burial plots, presumably so that we could physically visit. I have other ways to remember him as well, by keeping some of his small personal possessions that were special to him on my desk so that I smile and remember when I see them. He was so proud of his family and loved us all so much that I know for an absolute fact that he would not want us to dwell on the sadness and loss. He would want us to live our best lives in his honor, to tell and retell all of the stories we remember, and while there might be a few tears shed, there would also be laughter and jokes and love. I also never had my faith tested as much as it was when he died. His gift to me in death was the knowledge that he is with God and the loved ones that went before, and that he is watching over me in spirit, wanting me to be as happy and joyful every day because life is short and we never know what will happen. He died on 11/11/2016. His birthday was 8/11. I constantly see the number of 11 pop up in my life, only to find out it is the angel number. I often wake up wondering what time it is or something tells me to glance at my phone or the clock, only to see 11:11, at which point I smile and tell my dad hi and that I love and miss him.
I lost my Dad in 1995, 28 days later I lost my mom because she grieved herself to death. It was tough to deal with but as a family we got through it with a lot of help from God and family and friends. Grief will come in waves and it will hit you pout of no where , with Gods help and your beautiful family you will be fine , some days you will question that but you will be fine. Prayers for you and your family.
Thank you for being so open and vulnerable during such a tender time in your life. I love to hear your perspective of a part of life that we will all experience. I am so sorry for your loss. I admire how you are handling this with such grace. I admire the way you point to the Lord and even in such a short amount of time after your loss.
Pausing and watching this on and off. I lost my Mom Oct 29th due to complications of MS. Its refreshing for people to talk about grief in such a candid way, thank you!
Andrew and Shawn, I admire your transparency and watching your feelings so much! I lost my husband of 43 years one year ago yesterday. He had been sick for many years so I had a long time to say good-bye and to prepare. Reflecting on either way, the end result is the same, your heart is broken! Faith will help you every day, God is so good!
Great podcast!! Shawn is so right about the “7 steps” they don’t end. I lost my Dad over 47 years ago and I still grieve, I still go through the steps! Blessings to you both
Shawn is absolutely right. It comes in waves and you definitely revisit those stages. My spouse lost his dad suddenly in May, only a year after his dad's mom (grandma) had passed, and it's been quite the journey. As the spouse I did exactly as Shawn did: taking the load as much as I can, being that shoulder to cry on, being that continued support (event to my MIL). I'll say the first year is the hardest, especially those first holidays. I am grateful my dad and brother have taken him under their wing to teach him things or do things that he'd normally do with his dad. I admire your vulnerability and honesty Andrew. We definitely need more role models like you, and your dad will continue to touch lives through all he instilled in you, which is pretty dang cool.
I'm so sorry that you lost your dad. I lost mine too, but much older. I fact, your dad was a year older than me. I hope my daughter dies not have to bear this kind of grief for a long time. We knew my dad was dying. My mom died in the hour I went out to get her medication. That was a shock I'm not over. You have handled this with grace, dignity and humor. It's all needed. Keep your family close. My deepest condolences. Your dad was a huge part of your world. ❤️
I'm so sorry for your loss. Andrew, I am sure that after passing down much of the values and knowledge your father shared with you, Drew and Jett will be saying the same things as you in the future, feeling blessed to have had such a wonderful Dad - Something that is not guaranteed in life.
I’ve lost both parents within last 4 1/2 years …. My mom passed away 4 years ago and my dad just never recovered …. He took his life back in September …. Both of my parents were believers and loved the Lord passionately… I can say that grief is a difficult process ….I’m the hardest part of it comes months later when reality hits …. Shock last for a while …..longer than you think. Give yourself grace and time to grieve…. It never really stops …. I can say that once a year had passed after my mom’s death, it got better. Knowing they are in heaven is such comfort and peace …. However, you still miss them, can’t just call them or talk to them…praying over you Andrew.
Knowing WHERE he is and WHO he is with changes the impact of the stages of grief. There is an underlying joy that we have as Christians when our loved ones ascend. I hope that with your platform you can share and expand that knowledge so others can see Christ in you. You two are doing a great job. Just take each day as it comes and stay in the word. The word expands and grows in us when we go through these moments. Much love to you both and your family.
Losing a parent is the most bizarre mix of feelings ever. Like Andrew said, there has been 20 days that he has been on this planet without a father. I lost my Dad 6 years ago and I so felt that statement. It's a whole different feeling that no one really thinks about until it happens. God bless you and your family ❤️
Shawn, I love how you refer to him as dad, and Andrew’s family as yours. It’s really beautiful. These days a lot of people, including myself, don’t see their in-laws as their own family and would never call them them mom & dad. It’s really refreshing to see
That is what I really enjoyed too. How Shawn is really part of the family. They are good human beings. Mortal life is brief even though at times it doesn't feel as brief.
my spouse called my parents mom & dad
I never called my in laws by their first names. Out of respect, I called them mom and dad. And my hubby called my mom and dad that. My daughter-in-law doesn’t. She calls us by our first names. My daughter’s husband calls us mom and dad. So weird.
My husband called my parents mom and dad.. my father passed a few years ago but he always calls my mom, mom!! His parents are no longer with us. My daughter in law called us by our names ( a little uncomfortable) because we loved her like our own . At other times she would call me Momma Lyle which I Loved!!!!
My husband calls my parents mom and dad too. He lost his dad when he was 11, so when we met, it wasn’t long and my dad stepped in the role for him. And his mom has made some choices that have kept us at arms reach…sooo my mom kinda helps that role too..
I lost my brother at 5, mom at 21 and dad at 24. You are addressing grief in a very healthy way. Everyone’s grief journey is unique and your own🙏🏻🙏🏻
I am so sorry 😢 Andrew I’m very sorry he was your best friend.
Such a great pod today! Seeing the vulnerability from you, Andrew, and the quiet, supportive love from you, Shawn, was powerful. Being up front and forthright about how your relationship with Jesus has been your North Star was a blessing. Andrew, you will now be able to shepherd Shawn through this process when the time comes for her in ways that you never would have known before. Give yourself permission to grieve as long as you need. We love you as part of our big giant family of God.
I am in the trenches with you. I lost my 27 yo son almost 3 months ago. Parents should not have to bury their children. Hardest thing I have ever had to deal with and I’m struggling to make sense of it. It helps knowing he is with my mom, his NeNe, in heaven. Love you guys and your family. Praying for continued strength as you all navigate through this change in life.
Mr. East was a great man and role model for many. Thanks for sharing Andrew.
MILES!!!
Shawn, kudos to you for quietly allowing Andrew to just speak uninterrupted about his dad, and sharing your love of family and faith. Andrew, the hurt of losing your dad, as your one friend mentioned, will never go away. You do learn to live through it. You already expressed how his legacy will live through you. His most important example was that of his love for our Living Lord. Hold tight to your relationship with Christ Jesus. Dig into the scriptures so that your own children will have the opportunity to live with their grandpa's love of God through you and Shawn. Missing my dad since 2016.
I lost my one and only child, my daughter on Dec 27, 2022. The same day as your dad. They both we to meet our Savior. I cannot understand how people can do life without Jesus. My daughter was disabled and I was her caretaker. She needed care with every aspect of his life. The pain. Is real and raw. And I am in the waves of emotions astheu come and go. No one person is the same and everyone grieves differently. I have peace that I will see her again one day because and through Jesus and I too am his child. In the mean time I have to trust God and have faith in him. For his plans & ways are always greater. In the hurt of not having her here I know that God is Not done with me and looking forward to eventually getting see the full picture of what God is going to do with me. He promised to see us through to a victorious end. God is good and I am so thankful I have many pictures & memories to get me through the next part of my journey. Thank you for sharing your story. I find it helpful when you talk about that person & your journey
God bless you. Praying for you on this one year anniversary. Feel held by prayers and by the savior.
I can't tell you how amazing this video is.
1. Seeing how supportive a spouse can be in such difficult times is beautiful. Watching Shawn in the way she loves and respects Andrew shows me what I have been missing.
2. Hearing Andrew work through his grief in such a thoughtful way gives me so much hope. That breakdown he takes on each statement is so emotional and yet perfect in its connection to the Lord.
3. The respect the two of them show for family, whether it be siblings or in-laws, is absolutely breathtaking. Having the ability to love and grieve with everyone in your family is a blessing and I truly enjoyed listening to you two talking about the way you did this.
You are a beautiful couple, and God will continue to bless your family.
Faith is a positive thing and what got me through the death of my Dad 7 years ago. The day my Dad died we were with him when he took his last breath, we had our tears for sure but after his last breath my brother and I stood at the end of his hospital bed and all we could do was smile. Dad was in heaven with his Lord and was in no more pain. Now we are going through my Mom’s illness with congestive heart failure waiting for the Lord to take her home. We don’t know when that will be. We are just thankful for everyday we have with her. She is 87 and has lived a wonderful life. My prayers are with you and your family and know your faith will get you through.
Andrew, you are so eloquent with your words, and you are both mourning well! What an incredible testimony of the goodness of God in the midst of loss! You will be reunited in heaven one day! The tears and sadness of this life is temporary, but for all who know Jesus, we have the hope of eternity in heaven! Thank you for being light in the darkness! Glory to His name!!!
I lost my dad unexpectedly in 2021 - this episode was hard but so good to listen to. I have always felt like I wasn’t grieving the right way, but hearing your thoughts and feelings is comforting knowing I am not alone. Andrew, the days will get easier .. you will be able to talk about your dad without tears every time, the sadness will turn to more smiles and laughter. I try to think how lucky I am to have someone like my dad to miss, to have had his love and guidance for the years he was here and to know he lived his life until his last moment. ❤️
Watching this three weeks after I lost my dad. Thank you for being so vulnerable and sharing your thoughts and how you're processing everything. How blessed are we to know that our dads are in heaven with Jesus. That is what has given me peace through this sad time.
I pray you are also doing ok with Jesus and support in your loss❤
I am very sorry for your loss. The number of deaths “unexpectedly “ or “ suddenly” that has happened in the last year and a half or two is beyond alarming. They all seem to have a commonality. May the American public wise up to what is being inflicted upon us by a company or two who are liability free.
Andrew I lost my dad when I was 29 he was 56. It has been 14 years he’s been gone. I want you to know it never feels “back to normal” it’s just a new normal. The stages of grief come at different times for different people. At the 2 year mark I actually had to take a low dose anti depressant because grief was so overwhelming. I had never need any type of medication. It shook me. All that to say don’t be afraid to process everything you need to and be aware that it’ll come in waves.
What God doesn't protect you from, he will Perfect you through. Sending my prayers
The Lord is good and His mercy endures forever!! I lost my mom to cancer 3 years ago. I love your perspectives on all of these things.
My favorite memory of the morning of my mom’s passing was her last breath here and the next being with her Savior!!
The following is the most profound description of grief, & what to expect moving forward, that I’ve ever read, & I share it with *anyone* who needs to hear it. It’s long, but very worth the read!….
Someone on reddit wrote the following heartfelt plea online:
"My friend just died. I don't know what to do."
A lot of people responded. Then there's one old guy's incredible comment that stood out from the rest that might just change the way we approach life and death. This is what the old man wrote:
"Alright, here goes. I'm old. What that means is that l've survived (so far) and a lot of people I've known and loved did not. I've lost friends, best friends, acquaintances, co-workers, grandparents, parents, relatives, teachers, mentors, students, neighbors, and a host of other folks. I have no children, and I can't imagine the pain it must be to lose a child. But here's my two cents: I wish I could say you get used to people dying. I never did. I don't want to. It tears a hole through me whenever somebody I love dies, no matter the circumstances. But I don't want it to "not matter". I don't want it to be something that just passes. My scars are a testament to the love and the relationship that I had for and with that person. And if the scar is deep, so was the love. So be it.
Scars are a testament to life. Scars are a testament that I can love deeply and live deeply and be cut, or even gouged, and that I can heal and continue to live and continue to love. And the scar tissue is stronger than the original flesh ever was. Scars are a testament to life.
Scars are only ugly to people who can't see.
As for grief, you'll find it comes in waves. When the ship is first wrecked, you're drowning, with wreckage all around you. Everything floating around you reminds you of the beauty and the magnificence of the ship that was, and is no more. And all you can do is float. You find some piece of the wreckage and you hang on for a while.
Maybe it's some physical thing. Maybe it's a happy memory or a photograph. Maybe it's a person who is also floating. For a while, all you can do is float. Stay alive.
In the beginning, the waves are 100 feet tall and crash over you without mercy. They come 10 seconds apart and don't even give you time to catch vour breath. All you can do is hang on and float. After a while, maybe weeks, maybe months. you'll find the waves are still 100 feet tall, but they come further apart. When they come, they still crash all over you and wipe you out. But in between, you can breathe, you can function. You never know what's going to trigger the grief. It might be a song, a picture, a street intersection, the smell of a cup of coffee. It can be just about anything…and the wave comes crashing. But in between waves, there is life.
Somewhere down the line, and it's different for everybody, you find that the waves are only 80 feet tall.
Or 50 feet tall. And while they still come, they come further apart. You can see them coming. An anniversary, a birthday, or Christmas, or landing at 0'Hare. You can see it coming, for the most part, and prepare yourself.
And when it washes over you, you know that somehow you will, again, come out the other side…Soaking wet, sputtering, still hanging on to some tiny piece of the wreckage, but you’ll come out.
Take it from an old guy. The waves never stop coming, and somehow you don't really want them to. But you learn that you’ll survive them. And other waves will come.
And you'll survive them too. If you're lucky, you'll have lots of scars from lots of loves. And lots of shipwrecks"
❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
This is the most important part and also natural way of grieving. Communication and acknowledgement of how you feel and expressing your emotions. The grief process is a true reflection and you will experience them all, over and over again. The first 5 years are the toughest, the first year is the worst. Keep your communication with each other first and do not feel guilty for how long you grieve.
I also had a wonderful godly father. He was apart of my daily life. He has been gone 9 years. I still have times that I miss him so badly that I breakdown and cry. Christmas is especially hard because he loved Christmas. He will always be a part of me. I know that he is with his Lord and Savior. My daughter named her son after my father. I wish my dad could see him.
I also had a dream of my father talking to me two days after he died. I think that is Gods comforting Holy Spirit. As a Christian, God provides the comforter.
You can't overmemorialize your dad, Andrew! He is more alive then ever in heaven! Keep letting your heart speak of you dad and bless his life! Thank you for sharing! It blessed me! 💞🙏
Beautiful. Thank you. I lost my dad suddenly at 64 many years ago and I’m still cycling grief; as others have said in the phrases you hear, in memories and so much more. Even smell. My dad had a huge old oak desk in his office and I requested it when the day came and received it. But I could never use it despite my efforts. Each time I opened a drawer I smelled his after shave scent. So I sat beside his desk, at my smaller desk for many years. He sat beside every day of my life for many years. May God continue to richly bless you and your family. ❤
This was beautiful. Andrew you do not need to apologize for your emotions. Own them and talk all you want about your dad. Your feelings are your own and no one should judge that. Peace and prayers to you and your family.
I'm so sorry Andrew. What a beautiful example he was for all. God is in the center
I’m watching this and feeling so grateful for my husband who stood beside me and comforted me while I ordered my mother’s ventilation to be shut off yesterday morning after she was declared brain dead from an aneurysm. I’m so sorry for your loss Andrew and Shawn. Our angels will make heaven a little sweeter.
You earned a new guardian angel! I know Andrew mentioned how great of a dad and leader he was, but that leading doesn’t stop. He’s still looking over you and leading you ❤️
The strangest things will cause you grief and angst for as long as you need them to be there. I lost my Dad when I was 9.... and my Mom when I was 56. They were and continue to be very different kinds of grief. You are allowed to feel whatever you need to feel to make it from day to day.... don't let anyone force you to think any differently. My sincere condolences to you both and your family. Life isn't always easy... we learn to navigate as best we can. Your path through grief is your own. Thank you for tackling a very difficult situation.
Andrew & Shawn,
Thank you for being soooooo raw and real.
We need folks with your balanced perspective in moving generations forward with technology on platforms like this if we are to be able to reach the world!
This platform is exactly that!
You both are a LIVING testimony of the faith and courage of ppl like Guy East tilling dry soil where someone else likely planted, watered, fertilized and/or harvested him to be the foundation for your legacy after him.
I love that while we all have choices in life no matter our lot- we can CHOOSE TO CHANGE to become a legacy with whatever God has for each of us. We just have to ASK. SEEK. KNOCK ✊ and he will provide a Guy or Andrew or Shawn or Me ☺️ or anyone to pour into.
God bless you 2! You touch my heart more than words express.
So sorry about your dad Andrew but like you said God Is Good . And heaven got amazing man he is singing and watching your family and your his amazing bride . Prayers to your wonderful family.
I lost my mom suddenly at 71 and everything you are saying is so real to me. You will be going through this for a long while.
I heard a pastor say when his dad died. A quick death is GOD’S kiss
upon the soul. It gives me great comfort. My heart was broken when my dad died at 57 like your dad. My
mother suffered so long I could really
appreciate the quick death upon the soul. Your family will be in my prayers.🙏❤️
Andrew, I am so deeply sorry. I feel your pain because our family went through something very similar. Sending you prayers for God’s complete comfort and peace. Cling to your wonderful memories for they will see you through the years. You will always feel the pain but God will enable you to manage the grief through the years.
I am so sorry for your loss. You have an amazing extended family. I lost two male family friends with the same heart situation. We were told it was one of the strange side effects of the virus injection. I rejoice with you that your father as well as my dear friends are in the presence of the Lord. You both are so precious and I love all that you represent. I will keep you in my prayer.
Andrew there's no right or wrong way to mourn. Do what you are moved to do.
Thank you, for sharing your most inner thoughts, and feelings, as you process , such an enormous loss.
🙏❤️🙏
I am so sorry for your loss, it is extremely hard to go through. I lost my Mom in 2012. I miss her so much when Spring flowers bloom but knowing she is in Heaven with the Lord is such a Blessing. God Bless you. You are in my prayers.
I have to add one more note, Shawn is right. For 14 years I've vacillated among all of the stages. My life has rebuilt around the grief. But the grief is still there. There are days when the loss of my dad (even though I'll see him again one day!) Is so profound I have a hard time functioning. Then there's days where I'm so happy he has been enjoying Jesus face to face for these 14 years. The hardest is he never met my children. We hold to the hope that one day they will meet at Jesus' feet. But, Andrew and Shawn, give yourselves grace for however you feel at any given moment. There is no one way through this. Tears of sadness are ok, too. Cling like you've never clung before to Jesus. Study, pray, let your raw emotions out to him in prayer. You are all in my prayers daily. I hope my rambling comes across in all love. ❤️
You two are the cutest couple. You discuss the best topics with all the rawness 🙏🏻❤️🌻🍁🍂Love both of you! ❤️
I lost my dad unexpectedly when I was 11, over 20 years ago now. Grief is definitely a fluid continual process, and I have to continually remind myself of that even all this time later. A few years ago, I read somewhere that over time your grief doesn’t get smaller, but your heart continues to grow around that grief. I’ve felt that so much over the years, and clinging to knowing that he’s with Jesus has pulled me through more times than I can count. I’m so sorry for your loss, and I hope you find comfort in remembering your father. ❤
Prayers to you an your family. Its never easy. Losses sad. Condolences.
I lost my dad in 1998, in 2028 it will be 30 years, and I still find myself grieving that loss. Anger, depression, resentment that my kids never got to know the most incredible man I was blessed being a part of. It's a real struggle, and I feel like it will be constant. Many blessing on your journey of grief.
That was such a beautiful podcast. I lost my Dad six years ago now. And you couldn’t have been more right on. Thank you for sharing the love of your father with everyone. You are doing a great job! I know this was a long time ago now but that’s okay. I hope you are in an even better place today with your grief. It really is such a beautifully hard thing to go through. Thank you for reminding me ❤
I ve watched this again...Again
.again..
Thank You...
Shawn...You really gave me a truly more emotions. Still hard.
You are so lucky for having such a good Dad!! I read his obituary. You and your siblings are meant to carry on his legacy.
Such a beautiful thing to see the way you are experiencing joy in the midst of all of this very raw grief. That, in and of itself, is such a testimony to the love of Jesus. Oh, what a joy it is to know you will both see your dad again one day in the presence of JESUS. Praying for you both.
I lost my dad 40 years ago and my mother 20 years ago. Your honest, raw grief triggered grief or memory of grief for them. I will never stop missing them.
Hearing about Andrew's dream made me cry. I lost a very close friend in a car accident when he was 27 years old. Close to three weeks after I had the most realistic dream I have ever had. I could hear his voice singing, see in extreme clarity the details of his face and in the middle of the dream I started crying cause I knew it wasn't real and that I would wake up at some point. When I did wake up, I had been crying for a while and my pillow was soaked. I remember thinking, and still to this day feel like, this is such a blessing. It was almost like it was the best last memory I could have of him. It was beautiful and I am grateful for it.
This! Without a doubt was 100% what I needed to hear. My prayer is that you continue to share your Dad's life. Thank you just isn't enough for sharing. Sending you all the peace and comfort for your heart and soul.
Grateful is such a great way to describe your feelings. Having a father that gave you the upbringing and guidance that you had is not a given just because you have kids. Being a great father is a gift to his children. Because of your parents' you are able to enjoy the wonderful life and relationships you currently have.
You were blessed to have such a strong God-loving father who clearly gave you the foundation to be rhe loving supportive man you are. God bless.
Yes, you have lot to be thankful for. Loss is hard, but when you're parents are still married it helps make the loss easier and saves you from some heart ache. Thanks for sharing.
The "firsts" for me were the hardest. You never stop missing them, but eventually, you start smiling when you remember them.
Andrew, Shawn and the rest of the family, especially Mom East my condolences to you all.
I was moved to tears by this whole podcast.
My heart aches for you. Loosing a parent is hard and there would be no devastating grief if there was no incredible, huge love!!! I pray the Lord will bless your whole family with peace and comfort. Thank you for your statement that God is good. He is all knowing and the word “coincidence” is not in His vocabulary. Andrew, everything that happened between you and your dad, in the past few months, was part of the Lord’s plan. The most beautiful part of that plan, in this loss stage of our lives, is that we will see our loved ones again! It doesn’t make it any easier for those of us left here on earth, but knowing we will see them again gives us reason to live in partnership with the Lord, so those who have gone before us will be proud. Your dad loves you and is watching over you and your family. Relish in that love as you find a new “normal” in your life. The only people who think there’s a time limit for grief, have never lost a piece of their heart.
Lifting a prayer for the entire East family to have peace and strength during this difficult period.
I have no idea how you are doing this episode. When my mom died I was absolutely destroyed and cried everyday for a solid year. thank you for sharing.
My dad died 24 years ago and watching your podcast brought back all that grief again. It never really ends. When you talked about getting angry how other people were just living their lives like nothing happened. I remember going our to a store to pick up something and how mad I got that not everyone was grieving my dad. 24 years later I still remember that so vividly. Things change and get easier I guess but you never get "over" it. A loss like that is too great. I am a Christian as was my dad. I know I will see him again and get that bear hug. I often wonder what people do or how they cope without that hope. I am so sorry for you loss.
Thank you so much for sharing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. As I listened and the tears rolled down my face - I can agree with Shawn- the different stages of grief come and go. I lost my dad in 2010 and things will still pop up and I catch myself crying or angry or confused, etc. Love you all!
I lost my dad about a year ago whos my bestfriend passed at 62. I was in tears this entire episode. This episode meant so much to me because the process is so different for everyone dealing with loss but you opening up about this means so much to so many people. Thank you east fam, stay strong and I’m keeping you guys in my prayers. ❤
Such an inspiration the way you are processing this. Truly.
Andrew and Shawn - I am so sorry! Your Dad sounds like he was such an awesome man who loved Jesus!! As you guys said, can you imagine when your Dad saw Jesus!! What a homecoming! Please remember there is no right or wrong way to grieve. Give yourself grace and treasure all the beautiful memories you have. It sounds like your Dad did a wonderful job making memories for his family. God's Blessings!!!
Your love for your Dad is very evident. No one really prepares you to lose a parent. I lost my dad in December 2020. He was my hero and I will miss him every day. You were so blessed to have all the wonderful memories of him and to have just spent Christmas with him. May God bless you and continue to heal your grief. Your family is in my prayers daily.
Thank you for sharing your Dad. From what I see, he was BIG force for JOY in this world. He lived and loved hard. And my hope as you walk this new path in life, is that you allow him to come into your life how he can with where he is now. I feel confident he will! You learn to listen and see in a different way traveling through grief. I hope everyday you get better at allowing him in.... Both your Dad and the Savior! You will all be together again sooner than you know!
I agree with Shawn. I have recently lost my sister out of the blue. Very quickly I should say. Its been a couple of years and most days are good and I don't remember what happened but out of the blue I cry. Or I see a picture of her and I get so angry. Sometimes I blow her a kiss other times I just look away. Just when you think you are done processing or grieving you are right back to step one. So what I want to say is that we are all different, we all process at different stages different times. Lets not feel that we grieve in the stages that are put out for us. Lets just grief for us, lets grieve the way we need to in order to be able to move forward in some way.
There is something so beautiful in the grief of loved ones. It’s such a strange process, but that promise of Heaven is what makes it all so beautiful. God Bless you all ❤️
So, So sorry for your loss. He was a great guy. Peace.
Thank you so much for being so open and sharing. We lost my dad 2 years ago to late onset ALS. His decline was so quick. Thankfully my husband and two children were able to be in the states to be with him. We returned to the mission field a few months later and it still feels like a dream.
I started crying when you talked about your dream. I also had a dream about my dad and woke up sobbing because it felt so real and I had to call my mom and tell her about it. I’ll be praying for you and your beautiful family.
Having lost my dad suddenly just 2 years ago.. just feel whatever feelings come that day. It's not a list that you can check off boxes. I'm so sorry for your loss.. sending hugs and prayers to all of you.
Give you all big hugs... Everything your feeling is valid... But thanks for always sharing this process of your grief... I lost my mom last yr but never had a relationship like you did your father.. But she was my mom... And I wish but will never understand the love you shared with your dad & family. Always a joy to watch your videos and burst of laughter...
Hearing your heart through your experience is so valuable. The love and strength in your perspectives is such a beautiful gift that you share. Im grateful for your willingness to share the experience of walking through life. Praying for you and your family. Isn't it beautiful, the ripple effect of others who maybe you have never met, sharing tears of joy through your words and your stories and memories, and the impact it has on others. Thank you for this episode. Thank you for putting content out in the world that builds strength in others.
So sorry for your loss. Grief is a long process. Only time will give you acceptance of no longer having your loved one. Memories will be your most valuable treasure.
My dad died the exact same way, 11 years ago at age 45. I was 24 at the time. Literally would have never imagined in a million years that would be it. 🙏🏽🕊️
I've been blessed as well with my father until I was 48yr.old. But, 42yr old when I lost my mom. No matter how long or little time we have them you will always miss them. Keep active and say his name often. Know his spirit and presence is always with you. Embrace your feeling, it's a process you need to go threw to feel the pain of your loss. Exercise is my key to keeping me balanced and presence for those in my life on earth. Prayers for all of your family as you continue this new phase of life.
I lost my Dad 11years ago he was 68 and my mom 5 years ago she was 72. Dad had cancer so expected and My mom was suddenly of a brain aneurism. I found her in the car. I recognize all the things you are saying and living through. Thank you for this. And the stages of grief are on going, Shawn is so right. I still have the dreams and trigger moments. Grief is a journey ❤️❤️. Sending love and prayers🙏🏻🙏🏻
At 43:20 you mention being perpetually sad - I wanted to share my experience in that losing my father unexpectedly (very similar to how you lost yours) 2 years ago - I had to come to accept that my life will never be as happy as it could be/would be. When my daughter picked up a golf club for the first time, I felt sorrow that my dad wasn't here. When I take her to Disney, I feel pain that he isn't seeing this. When I got my dream job, I couldn't call him. It's not that life can't be good - it's that it's just not the same and never will be. There's always a little cloud and we just carry that with us for the rest of our lives. All the love to you guys.
Andrew from a Christian empath clairvoyant... what a blessing that he came to you in your dream as if to say "hey buddy, im good im here im not leaving. But im good!" Such a beautiful cathartic moment
Losing a parent is a strange, scary feeling! Praying comfort over your family 🙏🏻❤ Praise God he was a man of God 🙌🏼
Shawn is 100% right. The pain, anger, shock and denial will never go away. You just learn how to live with it. My Mom died at the age of 44 and has been gone 24 years now but I still have all those emotions. Just remember your Dad will alway be with you and watching over you.
Yes to all of this!!! Being the "in-law" you just want to help and be there for everyone. I know how it feels, I lost both of my parents in 4 years, my dad in 2018 and my mom in 2021 and then I ended up losing my Father in law not even a year after my mom passed. I was the rock for my husband, sister-in-law and Mother-in-law as well and planned most of his funeral because they could not, I did not want to show my emotions because I knew they needed me but at his wake I lost it when the police department gave their final salute to him and I just could not hold it back. You are never going to get over losing them but it does get easier but you will think of them every day no matter what.
I’m sorry for your families loss. I have been praying for you all during this time. I read about your dad (and know it doesn’t do justice to knowing your dad) and he seems so amazing. You are your dads living legacy, each and everyone of you.
I suddenly lost my Dad last January after Christmas too. I must say that grieving him has been the hardest thing I have ever been 😂through. One year into this, I still cry when I see his picture, hear is voice, feel him holding me. Despite this, time has brought back happy memories and a smile to my face. I know that I will grieve him for the rest of my life but the feelings will turn to good memories and comfort. God bless you and your family as you.grieve your dad! May peace be with you!
What a beautiful podcast. I love that Jesus spoke through this entire discussion.
I'm sitting here crying as you tell your journey... Losing my dad 7 years ago was the worst day of my life... I'm still grieving it doesn't get easier... Some days you'll be fine other days is a loss.... Big hugs
You grieve as much as you loved. ❤ There isn’t a timeline for grief. I lost my dad in 2015 & I’m still grieving & crying. I miss him so much.
Don’t let anyone tell you how long to grieve. You grieve in your own time. I’m so very sorry for your loss.
Andrew i love how you had such a great relationship with your dad. I envy that because i never had that. You're so lucky to have the time you had with him and to have the love of a father. I also love your perspective and how you talked through your emotions. I find that you have a deeper way of thinking and i think you got that from your dad. Because it seems like your dad had a lot of depth and was a visionary. Its so amazing to see how when one person emanates so much good, they can impact so many people. Your dad raised you well. We need more men and fathers like this in the world
Thanks for doing this. I lost my mother. So sorry for your great lost. Prayers of comfort to you and your whole family.
Thinking of you guys! I lost my mom when I was really young so I can unfortunately understand what it’s like to lose a parent when they had a lot of life left to live. Grief is complicated, but important to talk about so I’m glad you guys are shedding light on this topic. Continuing to pray for you guys as the weeks & months pass by!
Personally, the way I focused on dealing with the grief initially when my dad died was to keep in mind what he would have wanted for me and my family. I know that he definitely thought about how he would be remembered, since he changed his mind not long before he died about being cremated and having us scatter his ashes at sea. He instead asked us to find a cemetary cremation plot near family burial plots, presumably so that we could physically visit. I have other ways to remember him as well, by keeping some of his small personal possessions that were special to him on my desk so that I smile and remember when I see them. He was so proud of his family and loved us all so much that I know for an absolute fact that he would not want us to dwell on the sadness and loss. He would want us to live our best lives in his honor, to tell and retell all of the stories we remember, and while there might be a few tears shed, there would also be laughter and jokes and love. I also never had my faith tested as much as it was when he died. His gift to me in death was the knowledge that he is with God and the loved ones that went before, and that he is watching over me in spirit, wanting me to be as happy and joyful every day because life is short and we never know what will happen. He died on 11/11/2016. His birthday was 8/11. I constantly see the number of 11 pop up in my life, only to find out it is the angel number. I often wake up wondering what time it is or something tells me to glance at my phone or the clock, only to see 11:11, at which point I smile and tell my dad hi and that I love and miss him.
I lost my Dad in 1995, 28 days later I lost my mom because she grieved herself to death. It was tough to deal with but as a family we got through it with a lot of help from God and family and friends. Grief will come in waves and it will hit you pout of no where , with Gods help and your beautiful family you will be fine , some days you will question that but you will be fine. Prayers for you and your family.
I am so sorry for your loss. My condolences to you and your family
Thank you for being so open and vulnerable during such a tender time in your life. I love to hear your perspective of a part of life that we will all experience. I am so sorry for your loss. I admire how you are handling this with such grace. I admire the way you point to the Lord and even in such a short amount of time after your loss.
Pausing and watching this on and off. I lost my Mom Oct 29th due to complications of MS. Its refreshing for people to talk about grief in such a candid way, thank you!
Andrew and Shawn, I admire your transparency and watching your feelings so much! I lost my husband of 43 years one year ago yesterday. He had been sick for many years so I had a long time to say good-bye and to prepare. Reflecting on either way, the end result is the same, your heart is broken! Faith will help you every day, God is so good!
Great podcast!! Shawn is so right about the “7 steps” they don’t end. I lost my Dad over 47 years ago and I still grieve, I still go through the steps! Blessings to you both
Prayers for you all. ❤
Shawn is absolutely right. It comes in waves and you definitely revisit those stages. My spouse lost his dad suddenly in May, only a year after his dad's mom (grandma) had passed, and it's been quite the journey. As the spouse I did exactly as Shawn did: taking the load as much as I can, being that shoulder to cry on, being that continued support (event to my MIL). I'll say the first year is the hardest, especially those first holidays. I am grateful my dad and brother have taken him under their wing to teach him things or do things that he'd normally do with his dad.
I admire your vulnerability and honesty Andrew. We definitely need more role models like you, and your dad will continue to touch lives through all he instilled in you, which is pretty dang cool.
I'm so sorry that you lost your dad. I lost mine too, but much older. I fact, your dad was a year older than me. I hope my daughter dies not have to bear this kind of grief for a long time. We knew my dad was dying. My mom died in the hour I went out to get her medication. That was a shock I'm not over. You have handled this with grace, dignity and humor. It's all needed. Keep your family close. My deepest condolences. Your dad was a huge part of your world. ❤️
I'm so sorry for your loss. Andrew, I am sure that after passing down much of the values and knowledge your father shared with you, Drew and Jett will be saying the same things as you in the future, feeling blessed to have had such a wonderful Dad - Something that is not guaranteed in life.
I’ve lost both parents within last 4 1/2 years …. My mom passed away 4 years ago and my dad just never recovered …. He took his life back in September …. Both of my parents were believers and loved the Lord passionately… I can say that grief is a difficult process ….I’m the hardest part of it comes months later when reality hits …. Shock last for a while …..longer than you think. Give yourself grace and time to grieve…. It never really stops …. I can say that once a year had passed after my mom’s death, it got better. Knowing they are in heaven is such comfort and peace …. However, you still miss them, can’t just call them or talk to them…praying over you Andrew.