Welcome to the "Living in Freedom Everyday" podcast! I'm your host, Charity Miller, and I'm thrilled to have you join us for Season One, Episode Six. Today, we're delving into a topic that touches every one of us at some point in our lives: grief from losing a beloved "family member."

As we embark on this episode, I'm joined by a very special guest, my producer, and husband, Michael. Together, we'll navigate the intricate landscape of grief, sharing our personal stories and insights, and exploring the journey of healing and hope.

We'll start by examining the complex dynamics of what it means to be a family. From parents and grandparents to aunts, uncles, and siblings, we'll dive into the notions of being close versus simply knowing you're related. What about those individuals we consider family, even if they aren't bound by blood? And how does the time we spend with our loved ones impact our experience when the end of life inevitably arrives?

Drawing from our own experiences, we'll open up about the loss of a close grandparent early on in life. We'll contrast Charity's experience with losing her mother to Michael's loss of his father, highlighting the unique paths to healing that emerged. We'll also reflect on the different preparations and emotional processes we underwent when facing the imminent passing of Charity's mom and Michael's dad, compared to the sudden and heart-wrenching phone call that shattered our world.

Throughout the episode, we'll share intimate stories of saying goodbye to other cherished family members, including dear companions like my uncle "Teddybear" and Michael's sister Shelia, who held special places in our hearts. We'll discuss the ways in which we coped with these losses and embarked on the path to healing, finding solace and strength even in the darkest moments.

As we wrap up our conversation, we'll express our gratitude for the healing journey we've undertaken. A moment of prayer will unite us all as we seek comfort, understanding, and guidance on this challenging path.

But the journey doesn't end here. Keep tuning in to this season of the "Living in Freedom Everyday" podcast, where we'll continue to explore various facets of grief. We'll have conversations with individuals who have walked similar paths and emerged stronger, and we'll uncover the transformative power of healing with the support of an ultimate source of strength. Together, we'll learn to embrace life with a renewed sense of purpose and live in freedom every day.

So, dear listeners, grab a cup of tea, find a comfortable spot, and join us as we embark on this deeply personal and enlightening journey through grief, healing, and the profound beauty of what it means to truly live in freedom every day.