Jun 22 , 2024
By Eden Sahle
Most people who knew me would describe me as someone with strong faith. I used to consider myself the same way. However, the sudden passing of my father shattered my once unwavering faith. Lost and adrift in grief, I retreated from the world. Watching my husband struggle alongside me only deepened the pain. It took two years to find my way back.
But witnessing Zeritu Kebede's journey when she lost her firstborn, Khristian Lackachew, taught me what embodying faith means. Zeritu is the kindest and most decent lady in my circle. I knew the depths of her grief because I had been there myself. I knew how much she fought for her son's survival during his sudden illness. Her children meant the world to her, and I braced myself for the inevitable collapse.
For me, spirituality has always been about finding peace. But an essential part of that peace lies in accepting death as an inevitable part of life. We cannot shield our loved ones from it, and the "why" might forever remain unanswered. But, faith offers solace in the belief that there is a continuation beyond this life.
But Zeritu, ever the embodiment of calmness, faced this tragedy with remarkable strength. Her usual conversations, brimming with compassion, now carried a quiet acceptance of a higher purpose. Though heartbroken, her faith remained her anchor. Unanswered prayers for her son's recovery did not break her spirit.
Seeing her strength was both inspiring and heartbreaking. She transitioned Khristian from hospital bed to casket, then burial, all while dealing with overwhelming sadness. As a mother myself, I could only imagine the ocean of pain she is in.
However, she had to be strong for her remaining children, already struggling to grasp their brother's absence. When Khristian was hospitalised, she juggled constant vigilance by his side with caring for the others at home. Even in the throes of grief, she ensured their needs were met. Her embodiment of strength is beginning to translate to them.
Her faith remained a pillar, and her respect for life's mysteries shone through her actions. Throughout this ordeal, I witnessed a profound resilience blossoming within her. In her moments of vulnerability, she became a source of strength for everyone around her.
The power of community support resonated through this experience. But while comforting visitors, she stood to express gratitude for their presence. It was a display of kindness and care I had never encountered at a mourning event. Her home became a haven filled with prayer and an ever-present sense of peace. Being there brought solace, a quiet comfort that lingered long after leaving.
Although a grieving mother had every reason to succumb to bitterness, she chose kindness. Anger would have been a natural response, but she chose quiet strength. Losing hope was a real possibility, but she clung to the faith she always spoke of. When grief threatened to consume her ability to mother, she continued to provide unwavering love and support.
Her strength never ceases to amaze. Blessed with a beautiful voice, she uses it to spread love and compassion. A year ago, when I shared the pain of my father's passing, she listened patiently, then offered words of comfort – to gain strength each day and live a life that would honour him. She has been my greatest inspiration. While my faith faltered in the face of grief, rare individuals like Zeritu hold onto their convictions with unwavering strength. She possessed an understanding I lacked at the time.
Zeritu chose the path of resilience. Her response to loss was to create a new kind of relationship with Khristian – honouring and celebrating his life. She found new meaning, offering invaluable lessons—even when a loved one is long gone, love never dies.
PUBLISHED ON
Jun 22,2024 [ VOL
25 , NO
1260]
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