What to do when feeling sad about Queen Elizabeth's Death

We are a United Kingdom, grieving the death of our monarch, HRH Queen Elizabeth II. In fact, it extends far beyond our borders and the loss is being mourned across the globe. For many of us, the passing of such a significant figure has touched us in a way we were not expecting. The Queen was a quiet backdrop to the UK, that was stabilising and silently tied us together. It can be unsettling when things that are attached to our nationality and identity change after such a long time and if you feel this way, it is totally understandable. It's the end of an era.

As public grief takes centre stage, it can also bring up old wounds and give us a nudge that we might need some tender care in our lives for unresolved pain and personal loss.

For others, it may not have any major impact on our lives either way.

The important thing is to find people who you can identify with how you are feeling and have a chance to share your feelings together. If, for example, you are crying into your morning coffee as the news shows clips of "God Save The King" being sung to our new King for the first time, you might not want to reach out to your friend who's telling you, "What's wrong with you? You didn't even know her!" Find the people who have a similar outlook as you and share the moment together. It's OK to have a moment to feel, even when you can't make total sense of it.

If someone is coming to you for reassurance or if you're feeling in need of comfort and peace yourself, there is no better place to find it that in the word of God. Queen Elizabeth herself had an amazing faith that she shared frequently. In 2002 she said:

úI know just how much I rely on my faith to guide me through the good times and the bad. Each day is a new beginning. I know that the only way to live my life is to try to do what is right, to take the long view, to give of my best in all that the day brings, and to put my trust in God!ù

Here are some wonderful passages of scripture that will speak to your heart and remind you that the Lord is near to you now and always.

úBlessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted. Matthew 5:4

The Lord is near to the brokenhearted And saves those who are crushed in spirit. Psalm 34:18

Now may the Lord of peace Himself continually grant you peace in every circumstance. The Lord be with you all! 2 Thess 3:16

Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful. John 14:27

úAs one whom his mother comforts, so I will comfort you; And you will be comforted in Jerusalem.ù Isaiah 66:13

When my anxious thoughts multiply within me, Your consolations delight my soul. Psalm 94:19

These things I have spoken to you, so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world.ù John 16:33