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Dana's avatar

I love you, Jake. Thank you for sharing your heart and your grief. Not gonna lie. I read this aloud to Gerald and we both wept. My wish for you is peace that passes all understanding. ❤️

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Lindy Adams's avatar

Jake, I just read this column. It is beautiful and honest. Keep on the journey. Praying for you.

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Jake Doberenz's avatar

Thank you.

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Thomas Salerno's avatar

Jake, thank you for writing this column. Your raw honesty about your feelings and struggles is very moving. You're in my prayers every day. And don't hesitate to reach out. I'm always ready to be a listener.

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Lindy Adams's avatar

Such a good column, Jake. Having people who love us is the only way to survive in this grief-filled world. But in my experience, the only way to survive grief is to go through it - not suppress it. It's a hard road, but the only clear path to any sort of recovery. You will find it. God bless you and your honesty. Thank you.

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Jake Doberenz's avatar

Yes, my therapist always said that grief is like a monster. Most people want to run away, but in actuality, you need to invite it in for tea and sit with it.

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John E. Dobbs's avatar

Thanks for allowing readers into your heart for a bit. I know many will understand and benefit from your honesty.

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Jake Doberenz's avatar

I pray that others can benefit from my words.

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CJ Mulligan's avatar

Thank you for your transparency, I am sorry for your losses, and I pray for God to walk alongside you as you move within your grief.

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Jake Doberenz's avatar

I covet your prayers. Thank you.

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Stacy Knapp's avatar

Oh how much I deeply feel your words here! That holiday grief is no joke.

How meaningful that God comforted you when you had friends like Job’s who “sat on the ground with him for seven days and nights. No one said a word to Job, for they saw that his suffering was too great for words.”

May you experience the peace of God this holiday season as you embrace both joy and grief.

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Susanna Peters's avatar

Thanks for writing this.

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Jake Doberenz's avatar

You are welcome. I write to heal--myself and others.

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