TPP #143 | The External Struggle of Loss with Greg Bufkin & Danielle Zapchenk

The Parable Podcast with Danielle Zapchenk

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Ever feel like you just said the most awkward thing to a grieving person? Umm yeah, I’ve done it. Welcome to the Parable Podcast Today we are going to have the 2nd part of a candid conversation with my friend Greg Bufkin who is 2015 lost his son Ryan. As a trigger warning we reference suicide so if you are in a place with little ears or just working through this right now, please feel free to move on to another episode. —We all deal with loss or grief in some way and so our hope in today’s conversation is what it looks like to be there for another, how some words can be harmful and what we can do instead as a support system.

Greg shares his experiences with loss and grief and how people's well-intentioned but careless words can be painful. He emphasizes the importance of offering grace and understanding to those who may not fully comprehend the depth of grief. Greg also discusses the significance of building a support network before experiencing loss and the role of friends and family in providing comfort. This conversation explores the topics of finding hope in Jesus, misunderstandings and stigmas surrounding suicide, insights for parents, and the power of sharing stories.

Takeaways

• In a relationship with Jesus, there is hope and the possibility of healing and growth.
• God can bring good out of even the most tragic circumstances.
• Misunderstandings and stigmas surrounding suicide still exist, but it is important to remember that salvation comes through grace, not works.
• Open communication and being a student of your child can help navigate difficult conversations and provide support.
• Mental health support is crucial and should be treated with the same importance as physical health.
• Sharing personal stories can bring hope and encouragement to others.

Reflection Questions

1. Building a support network is crucial when dealing with grief. Who was it that played vital role in a challenging time and why was that so meaningful.
2. We all can say truly dumb stuff just because we feel awkward or have misconceptions. What would be some ways we can navigate that in the future by having 1 - 2 meaningful questions locked away so we can compassionately listen and love others?

Connect with Greg Bufkin

FaceBook | E-mail l Listen to Greg and Cathy's previous episode

The Empty Chair Endeavor

Hope after Child Loss Podcast

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