Grief, Faith and Surrender by Ruby Stanley

Written by Guest Writer

March 11, 2023

“Nothing can bring you peace but yourself.”

✌🏼Ralph Waldo Emerson 

Childhood farm life was simple and peaceful until the summer before my 4th grade year…that August my family was taken out by a drunk driver….mother, father, grandmother, aunt…gone!

My new caregiver was a paternal aunt I had no memory of meeting prior…she lost a mother, brother and two sister-in-laws in the same crash…sadly she suffered irreparable emotional damage in the aftermath. 

My aunt graciously made space for me in her home, yet I knew my orphan status was a constant reminder of her monumental loss as well as a noticeable imposition within the structure of her own family of five…now six.

Eventually I internalized her bouts of “lack of peace” as being my fault and my problem…her suffering was beyond intense at times, I felt deeply responsible for such immense grief and it was costly, as it took it’s toll on me to a considerable extent. 

Upon reflection I realize that somehow I became her “compassionate rescuer” both spiritually and emotionally…my own peace was gradually and sadly compromised in order to “save peace”.

Over the years, periods of intentional “self discovery” and profound faith have yielded a deeper understanding of the unfortunate situation, as well as a reluctant “surrender” to its impact…

Now when I step into “my peace”, there are moments of joy and contentment which seem to appear out of nowhere…also bits of unexpected bliss!

“Anything you accept fully will get you there, will take you into peace. This is the miracle of surrender.”

🕊️#eckharttolle 

Isaiah 26:3

#RubyStanley #peace #faith #surrender

#innerwork #innerpeace #bliss 

7 Comments

  1. Erika Petrie

    Thank you Ruby for sharing such a profoundly personal and touching story. The faith and resilience you have shown in being able to get through your childhood grief and shape it into becoming the person you are today (a truly inspiring woman who uses her experience and trauma to benefit others suffering with mental health issues and loss), is absolutely amazing!

    Reply
  2. Ruby Stanley

    It’s my pleasure dear friend!

    I’m so proud of you!🙏🏼❤️

    Reply
    • Erika Petrie

      The feeling is mutual! 🙂

      Reply
  3. Annunziata Di Lecce

    ✨Dear Ruby your story is a guide for those who want to embark on the journey to the Peace garden.
    Thank you for sharing #gratitude❤️🌺🦋💫

    Reply
    • Ruby Stanley

      Thank you for sharing such a beautiful sentiment dear Annunziata🙏🏼❤️💐

      I will forever remember The Peace Garden my friend🕊️

      Certainly it will someday appear in my book☺️

      Reply
  4. Richard Li

    This is so inspiring, thank you Ruby Stanley for sharing your awesome self discovery and deep faith in God.
    Keep up your wonderful spirit !

    Reply
    • Erika Petrie

      Your comment is much appreciated Richard…thank you 😊

      Reply

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