How do you deal?

What do you do in the face of death and dissapointment? As a faithful leader people expect you to be able to deal well with death and dissapointment. I think the most important part is dealing with them. If we try to go on as though nothing has changed, it is like going on with a weight tied on to our legs. Instead of brushing things under the rug, it is important to grieve our losses. No matter what you are dealing with--the struggle of the loss of a partner, the death of a loved one, or even just the dissapointment of the week-- please, deal with it.
As Christians, somehow we think it is best to keep our chins up, smiles showing, and everything will be alright. Seems to me Jesus was anything but fake. He lived through some pretty tough losses. Some of his closest friends decided to turn back. He lost John the Baptist early in his ministry. He dealt with things through prayer and taking the time he needed to be alone. If you are hurting and dealing with loss, please do what you need to do. Take time to pray. If you need time alone, take time alone. If you need friends to carry you through the crowds, lower you through the roof to be healed by the hands of Jesus, ask for their help. You know better than anyone what you need. Remember, being a strong Christian may mean allowing God to work through our weaknesses.
Grace and peace, Emily