When the unthinkable happens...how will we survive?Surviving the loss of a child is the hardest of journeys. There is only one way and that is through.But what does that even mean?"I can only show and tell you about my experiences along the way, pointing out mistakes, dangers, and miracles."-Cheryl ChristopherA portrait of Grief was written to hold the reader's hand through the early stages of grief and to provide guidance for sustained healing into the future.Cheryl Christopher writes from personal experience of losing three boys. Although child loss is the primary subject, this book is impactful to those who have endured loss of any kind. In concise chapters, fellow grievers are pointed toward hope and renewal through personal stories, teachings, and music selections for healing.The book is structured to walk you through: The crippling effects of catastrophic lossThe process of grief and mourningDenial and AvoidanceThe weight of words and the hardest questionThe worst that stages have to offerFearGuilt and graceLearning to receive comfortLoss of identitySelf-CareSigns and Epiphanies: everyday miraclesMarriage amid miserySuicide, the Ultimate TragedyComplicated GriefCelebrating those lost too soonManaging special days and holidaysShaping our worries into prayersThe impossible promises of Romans 8:28When to let the joy back in: let's danceLift up your eyes