We need to talk about death. (Trigger: this vlog is heavy)

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[@salenakeyes300]

Our eldest son passed away two weeks ago. Videos like this make me feel unalone in my grief. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your authenticity and openness. It means so so much.

[@Gramsloveschickens]

So sorry for your loss. God Bless you. Becky

[@frasersgirl4383]

My heart goes out to you…..we lost our only grandchild in 2020……the darkness does have some light at the end but it’s not something that happens soon if ever…..would you mind if I prayed for you? 💔🥺💔

[@summerhill_homestead]

I am so sorry for your loss. My heart goes out to you.🙏

[@katehopkinsbrent5573]

I’m very sorry for your loss. My heart hurts for you 😪. I’ll pray for you and your family - also that knowing we’re all here for you may give you a bit of comfort in your grief. 🙏

[@OceanWillowEstates]

Oh I’m so sorry for your loss. ♥️ prayers for you and your family and your son in heaven. No one should have to bury their baby.

[@Susanadana69]

My dear Jess… that you share your heart so openly with us amazes me. When I lost my baby brother to suicide my dear friend Eloise came up to me with a little piece of paper on which she had typed a small poem. When she lost her son, she said this was the only thing anyone gave her that brought her peace. I’m sharing it with you. The tide recedes but leaves behind bright seashells on the sand. The sun goes down, but gentle warmth still lingers on the land. The music stops, yet echoes on in haunting sweet refrains……. For everything that passes something beautiful remains. That same piece of paper has been on my refrigerator for 40 years. I hope it brings you peace like it did for us.

[@cherylk1518]

Beautiful poem, thanks for sharing 💕

[@FloraM44]

The 5th anniversary of my Mom's passing is tomorrow morning, and I wasn't sure if I was going to say anything at the lunch. I think I may just say this. Thank you for sharing it. I'm sorry for your loss 💜

[@Susanadana69]

@@FloraM44 my thoughts are with you.

[@FloraM44]

@@Susanadana69 thank you 💜

[@sharongates4699]

Such a beautiful poem. Thank you for sharing it with us.

[@user-my6uv2lb1o]

When you said a mother died in a tornado, I immediately knew it was shielding her children. It always is. 💛

[@annahuck5267]

She shielded both her babies. We are forever grateful for Kay's last motherly love on this earth. Kay will always be our hero

[@tagladyify]

@@annahuck5267 I hope those children are recovering from what had to be a mind altering event for them. God give them peace and healing. ❤‍🩹 and for all involved.

[@bonniegreer6882]

I lost my daughter unexpectedly last week. Still processing. Glad I'll see her again, still..

[@JaTon]

I’m so very sorry. Prayers for comfort. ❤

[@Rachel-mp6kf]

I’m so sorry for your loss 😢May her memory be a blessing 🙏🏽

[@traciebecker6669]

I'm so sorry ❤😢

[@growjoyfullyhomestead]

I am so very sorry! Words cannot help.🙏

[@julieb7068]

Please look up a breaving parents group called, “While we’re waiting”. I have found some comfort and help there with like minded parents.

[@silver_threads]

28 years ago we lost our 2-year-old sweet and special son, Isaac, and after the months and years passed, and life went on, and I really did laugh again, even though I thought I never would, I would have these occasional unexpected bursts of grief. I would tell myself, and I still tell it to anyone who will listen, those outbursts assured me that Isaac was real...and really did exist for a short while. The grief was my proof that he lived and was important to me and that I loved him. Blessings to you and yours, Marie

[@kathymc234]

Very sorry for your loss.

[@mollysmith6055]

We are so very different, aren't we? Thank you for sharing the heartache that defines your life and has created who you are now. I nearly left this life during the birth of my son 30 years ago. He and I share such a unique bond in that he would not exist without me but I would not want to exist without him.

[@tiffcat1100]

❤️💜❤️

[@Walis68]

My German Shepard passed a few days ago, and I'm in shock. It was so sudden, she had no health issues and very healthy. She didn't act any differently, no signs. I came home Monday morning after work and she was at the top of my steps, lifeless. She was my first animal I bought myself and I had a 9 blessed yrs with her. I still don't understand what happened, we buried her next our home and planted flowers on her grave. My beautiful German Shepard, I miss her so much already.

[@leannei.7732]

I'm so very sorry.

[@JaTon]

I’m so sorry. Our pets are fur babies and it’s so hard. Prayers.

[@kathymc234]

I'm very sorry.

[@HillsideHomesteadOG]

I'm so sorry for your loss.

[@kmsch986]

I lost my 8 year old Akita like this, was hanging out with family and walked into the room she liked to hang out in and she was dead. I talked to my vet and he suspected she died of gastric volvulus which big breeds can get. 😢

[@pamhunter8836]

It just got worse. I live about 40 minutes from where the tornado happened. One of our news personalities just reported that Kaylan’s grandmother (who was also injured in the storm) just succumbed to her injuries. Please continue to pray for this poor family. 😢

[@reneethomas5548]

Prayers

[@battlearmanda]

You're right, the statement of a mother shielding her children brought me to tears. This is such a heavy topic, but it's so incredibly important to talk about.

[@baileywright3113]

I wasn’t expecting it, and it felt like bricks😓

[@ThatClaraGirl]

You know you have an army of prayer warriors watching your channel and ready at any time. ❤ We bless you and thank you for being raw and real.

[@growingingracebyhisgrace3927]

Amen 🙏🏼

[@teresastone1730]

Amen

[@cassandrahoward8325]

Yea are an amazing young lady,who is mature beyond your years.!! ❤❤❤

[@susanturner9023]

Beautifully put. I second. ❤

[@yvonnedavid91]

ThatClaraGirl you are so right. Bless you Jess and your beautiful family. ❤

[@reginafromtexas2314]

I lost my husband of 13 years just 4 days ago. July 17, 2024. He fought a 2-year battle with lung cancer that then proceeded to his brain. My Johnny was only 63. I don't even know how to live without my best friend. 💔

[@heatherkenniston3780]

My thoughts and prayers are with you.

[@TheDiligentSoul]

I know these words are not comfort, but you're in my prayers...

[@evanorvell8368]

"Grief is the price of love." Whether it's a pet, a farm animal, or the loss of a close relationship. The loss is love. It is important that we embrace our humanity, yes, but it is urgent that we embrace our eternity. You know that. I live very near Bossier, and I went through those storms, too, in the hallway of my home with my little grandchildren. I didn't have to shield them with my body, but I love them, and I would've done whatever it took to protect them. Praying for your cousin and his family. God bless you.

[@takingcareofmine]

As a nurse in a rural hospital we do birth to death- and I had a CNA ask me one night how can you be cheerful when you have a patient dying? I took her to the nursery where I was also caring for a baby just a day old and I said look-this is the beginning of life and Mr x is at the end-we have joy in the whats between and how we embrace our end-he is ready to go home and that gives me joy . She looked confused so I hugged her and said we will all feel that need for then some day -embrace to joy. You correct about stewardship and tough hard choices! You just had a lot for one week-

[@bmac5242]

This warmed my heart that you took such care of this CNA. She will more than likely revisit the experience with you that night, many times throughout her life. My son was a CNA for many years and now a nurse. Anyone that receives his care, your care, and all those like you; will be blessed.

[@LadyOfTheNorth11]

Last summer we found out our dog had cancer... it was awful watching her struggle and suffer and seek comfort only to find none. The choice to put her down was difficult to say the least, but that time of grief taught me that sometimes death is a mercy.

[@journeytohomestead527]

I saw this title and said "wait, Jes needs me lol" giving a virtual hug lol 🥰🥰

[@tinawagener7942]

Prayers going up for Chas, his children, and all family members and friends, that God would help them carry the weight of grief and find a place of peace. I wish the same for anyone posting here that also needs help carrying that weight. May God bring peace and comfort to you all. ❤️🙏🏼

[@Gardeningandstuffwithholly]

My heart goes out to you Jess, your family, and to all those grieving in the comments. May you all find peace. ❤

[@lindajackson9537]

Both of my parents passed in 2023. I thought I was prepared for their passing...there is no way to prepare for such a deep loss. Then the death of sibling relationships blindsided me. I am learning the task of 'grieving well' and your message, though hard, blessed me. May you and your family be blessed.❤🙏

[@alanawemple6074]

The same thing happened to my husband 17 years ago when his parents died in the same year.😢

[@elizabethlink3993]

💚 Oh, Jess 💔😭.Both of my parents passed in the past couple years..my father, my mother's devoted caregiver, unexpectedly passed before she did, the grief was SO raw and deep, it has lightened up a bit, with less frequent times of such depth. Bless little Twister, Bless Hope, Bless 'Kaelen'/Kaylen, as she shielded her children. Bless you and yours, Bless us All, in our Humanity. 💚

[@peggyboland5166]

Thank you for sharing this. I lost my mom 7 months ago after caring for her. Hospice was a great help. She wanted to be at home, and im glad we could give that to her. I miss her so much.

[@mitchh9111]

I lost my man to cancer during 2020, 6mths from diagnosis… a fit muscled healthy gym goer to his passing. Utterly horrendous watching the person you love most in the world battle that ghastly disease and to lose the battle. Nearly 30yrs together never thought I would find myself alone at 56. Been a tough few years.

[@danarzechula3769]

😢❤

[@tiffcat1100]

💜😢❤️

[@savannah-x1u]

My heart goes out to your cousin Chaz and his children. Sending them grace and love🖤 What a brave, beautiful momma.

[@jeremiahfarmgoatdairy8823]

Learning to deal with death and grieve well is so very very important. Thank you for your honest and transparent words. ❤

[@jenniferdowney3674]

I operated a Grade A goat and cow dairy for 18 years. I fully empathize with your story. Sigh and go forward. Hugs.

[@JacquelynWentworth-mh1wu]

Death definitely is not romantic, but giving a fellow creature a dignified ending, without prolonging suffering to starve off the inevitable grief, that sure is ❤. My heart goes out to you and your family, I’m glad you got to spend some time together after all of this. You did good Jess.

[@WendysWorldTX]

Ohhhh, momma ❤ I had to pause. God bless her soul. There is no greater sacrifice. 💔 God be with those babies and their father. 🙏

[@audreanaderhake2642]

Grief is a journey. In my journey since losing our 3 yr old son Ezra almost 4 yrs ago, I’ve learned so much about myself and the world. I’ve also experienced a depth of love I don’t think I’d have ever known otherwise. I told my therapist that if I wasn’t the one living it, grief and its process would be fascinating. There is so much to be gained in grieving, and there is so much love required to do it well.

[@kittiew260]

Jess, my dad passed July 1st under hospice care with mom and I being the caretakers. I also lost my brother last July. It's been a difficult year, and talking about death is part of life. Grief is different for everyone, but thank you for sharing

[@hoosierpioneer]

It will be 8 years on the first day of fall that my husband's been dead. I still seek his advice, by running my experiences with him thru my head and knowing what he would recommend. He makes regular appearances in my dreams, which are set in the present, and he's there living my current life with me. He won't be gone as long as I remember him. He's over the rainbow bridge taking each pet into his arms as they cross one at a time. No one wants me saying I look forward to joining them.

[@daniellehamilton8397]

Just wanted to say I live not too far from Bossier and have been praying for your cousin’s family ever since.Hearing her dad speak on the news was gut wrenching but like he said we have to cherish our kids/family because we never know when it’s their last day. God Bless you!

[@GeorgiasGarden]

My precious mother passed away in 2010. I’m still grieving. The loss will never leave me until I the day I see her again. I thank God I have the promise of this.

[@EmbracethechaosPortugal]

My heart goes out to everyone affected by the loss of Kaylynn may she rest in peace.

[@southofthesticks]

In Gods care. ❤🙏✝️

[@marybethwhalen70]

She was such a strong woman to take her children under her wing and shield them from the wrath of this tornado. If I had to go, I couldn’t think of a more honorable way to go. Prayers for their family and her children and Chaz.

[@cheryllovestoread]

💛Kaylynn💛 Be at rest, Momma.💐

[@SaltCreekFarmstead]

Having livestock has taught me that everyone and everything dies. None of us get out of here alive. It’s a matter of what we do with the time we have. Hopefully we all live until a ripe old age, but even that is not guaranteed. Grief is love with no place to go. I heard that and it really made sense to me.

[@Hdg73]

I lost my only child Angie in a terrible accident at 27. She had one daughter and two sons. I lost my youngest grandson four years ago today,in a deadly shooting. I feel so sorry for all your losses. Prayers for you and your families and your animals. ❤❤❤ 33:26

[@reneebeason7471]

I’m so sorry for your many losses so close together. Sending you and your family love and prayers.

[@MirandaKHayes]

My dad died July 10 2016 of suicide and the pain has not lessened or gotten easier to deal with in any way whatsoever since that day 8 years and 8 days ago. My heart just absolutely shatters for your friend’s family. They will be in my prayers. I am a homesteader and partner of a cattle farmer. I completely understand. Even when my meanest animals that I cant stand die, it is sad. And to see them struggle and know it’s our responsibility as stewards of the earth is heavy. And to lose the ones you actually feel connected to is just unbearable at times. I run to the Father in those moments. I bottled raised a lamb last spring and he still thinks I’m his mama and comes hollerin and runnin to me whenever he sees me. He was potentially going to be a meat lamb but I just love him too much. So, I get it, is what I’m saying. My heart goes out to you, Jess. Much love ❤️

[@JeanaAlbert]

Thank you for sharing this with us. It sure opened up the floodgates for me which I needed so badly and didn't realize. I lost my husband and my little dog two weeks before that. All during a time I was healing from hip surgery from a bad fall and losing kidney function. I thought I was basically finished grieving but oh no! Been laid up in bed with either food poisoning or a flu. I so needed this cathartic cry. I am so sorry for your losses. You are precious and a real jewel I am so happy to have found your channel and have been watching you for years.

[@Ksenia0707]

I cried so much during this vlog… this hits home. Just recently lost my favorite, closest uncle to a heart attack… and then our baby lamb died. 😭💔 May the Lord wrap you in His arms Jess, and give you peace. Praying for you and your cousin’s family.🙏🏻🙏🏻

[@GeekWaresASMR]

I lost my momma recently and I know I'm no where near strong enough to watch this video yet. I take comfort in knowing you have some sage words to help me through this time. One day I'll be ready. And I know you'll be here. Many hugs. ❤️

[@AHomesteadingHustle]

I recently shared a story of some death on our farm. Homesteading definitely exposes us to this on a different level than a non-homesteading lifestyle. Its important to share the hard things. Real life happens, there is absolutely value in sharing. Hugs Jess ❤

[@evalinawarne1337]

I have had pets died. It hurts as much as you homesteaders feel the pain. It hurts. I'm sorry for your pain. GOD BLESS YOU.

[@WelcometomyCapeCodlife]

What I have learned about death is that loss leaves a hole in your soul. The hole never goes away, but with time you learn to absorb it into your life. As your friend said grieve well because he was right, that is how you process the loss. Love and prayers.

[@feliciascraftyadventures4734]

I'm so sorry for all your losses. But thank you for this message. I have been a caretaker for my uncle's brother for the past few months with stage 4 cancer. We had just got news that the chemo was working. I was getting him ready to go Sunday morning and he collapsed on me. I did cpr, and anything I could until the paramedics got there, but he died in my arms. I'm really struggling, because I have been so close with him for weeks, but because I'm technically not blood family, I feel like everyone is just ignoring what I went through. Thanks for talking about this subject.

[@coollbeans222]

I am so sorry for your loss and what you are going through. I can’t imagine how traumatizing that must be for you. Sending you internet hugs from a stranger. I hope you receive the support you deserve in this time. ❤

[@HarvestingFaithHomestead]

I’m so sorry for your loss 💔😭

[@reneethomas5548]

I am sure your charge feels differently. Praise you!

[@onlybev1]

Hi Jess. Hospice RN here. Death is part of life. You always want to make sure you have taken the best care to make sure all are as comfortable as possible. When dealing with death you always are taking into account the living are still here. And then you do your best to make sure you also take care of those survivors. In my work we become very close with not only the patient but the family. When you have done your best to make sure those 2 things have been done, then you have done your job. Love Bev from Oklahoma

[@SharonPack-ju7js]

Thank you Jess for the Grieve well.... It has been 4 months since my husband died, this is the first day that I have not cried yet it is only 7pm. I hope you and yours can grieve well.... God Bless....

[@herbhometales8255]

So sorry about your family. It still hits hard. And it triggers memories. Tell her stories. ❤ we lost both our adult daughter and our five year old to cancer. The grief takes time. Our livestock is also loved, yet in a different way. Telling the stories keeps them with us …

[@terratribefarm]

Hi , this book has helped me immensely with holistic care for our dairy cows, we have fought so much mastitis and sickness. Our protocol now is vitamin c, raw honey, apple cider, ground turmeric and 3 garlic cloves , once a day for a minimum of 5 days. For extreme mastitis we have used hydrogen peroxide straight into the teats. We are Australian but this book would be beneficial any where, natural cattle care by pat coleby, she also has a natural goat care and has helped us through so many pickles with our Nubian goats as well.

[@jilkev115]

Thank you so much for sharing this ❤

[@galeharris6696]

Thank you Jess. I am thinking of you, and love your way of talking about knowing the different ways that death touches us. Also, as a now 74 year old woman who lost her mom in an accident during a thunderstorm at 7, if you have a chance to make yourself available to Kaylynn's children to talk to, that would be an amazing gift of humanity. In the 1950's, no one thought it was appropriate to talk to a little girl about losing her mom, so I had no way to process a horrible event. I was in my 30's before I thought to go see a therapist, and process the grief and anger and confusion. Your deep kindness will be so helpful to Kaylynn's children. They might not be able to talk about what happened, but it will help them to have you ask, I guarantee! They will never forget that you did. I am sending you a hug, and love from Vermont.💖💚♥💔💜

[@jakebr8ke]

When you talked about Twister all I could think about was your last devotional where you said They will be done. Unfortunately we don’t understand the why or what ifs of life. You did right by Hope ending her suffering and letting her go on to support life. I firmly believe that when making a decision that involves ending an animal’s life, it’s always best to be a week too soon than a day too late. Hope was slowly failing and suffering in the heat. The loss of your cousin’s fiancée is heartbreaking, but she gave her life so her children can live on. What an honor to be able to do. God gave her children a strong loving mother. It tough to think about and it’s gonna be hard for her children to know that their mother’s love protected them when danger came. I pray that they don’t ever develop Survivors Guilt, but live a life full of love and gratitude for all things. I bless you Jess!

[@vincesalzer9855]

You're right... I cried when you mentioned that lady who protected her children with her life.

[@gelwood99]

In my older age, I have learned that the depth of grief you have over a loss is the depth of love you hold for that person, I still grieve for the loss of my Mother in 2005. We are not given a time of our death, it is God's Time when our expiration date is met, young or old, we just have to have Faith and KNOW where we will end up for our eternity! Prayers for your family and her children!🙏🙏❤❤

[@kristinthornton2690]

I think it's so important to talk about death. To learn how to process. It's so natural, it happens to everyone and everything. It takes me years to process a loss. Thanks for bringing it up, I think I like to pretend it doesn't have to happen.

[@donaldtruster1064]

The power of loved ones praying for someone, in grief or facing a sickness of uncertainty of life or Death, is such a blessing, prayers to you and family, God loves us so!

[@j_h_rden]

I just put my dog to sleep yesterday. This is so spot on for what I’m going through. Thank you for sharing, your wisdom, and understanding on a personal level.

[@shawnmcpeak6184]

We have thunderstorm / and flooding set for most of the easter 1/3 rd of NC. till 9pm. My grandson's (13) best friend (12)lost his older brother yesterday. Self inflicted. It was horrible it happened at home and both the boys were there. They did not see him. My Husband daughter, and the two boys kept their plans to DC. They all went to DC. He is doing ok, but was better to go than to be leery to go in the back yard. they are all going to go to therapy when able. My grandson, is taking this hard. He thinks he could have stopped it because he was awake. Boys think it was an OD. I had to get this out. Thank you all for being available to voice these things. So Sorry for Your loss Jess. The rain has started like gangbusters.

[@wildzenventures]

I’m sorry for all your families loss of your farm animals. I recently lost my beloved dog, Bear and it was so hard, but having to tell others was extra hard. 😢 It’s been months and the grief still comes on out of the blue. I always appreciate your gentle and kind demeanor over difficult situations. Hugs to you 🥰

[@laurafrey5244]

We lost our amazing cat Kyle a few months back, and the devastation and grief have been constant.

[@wildzenventures]

@@laurafrey5244 Sorry to hear about your beloved kitty, I definitely understand. Hugs

[@alysiagregg133]

Death is a part of life that we would rather forget but it is an important reminder of how precious and short life is. There will be a day when death is swallowed up and every tear is wiped from our eyes! Oh, the day when that will be a reality. In the meantime we must face death, grieve well, and process it. Thank you for being real, we have too many that shrug off the hard things. Grief is there and it needs to be shared. Sorry for your loss! My prayers are with Chaz and his precious family!

[@RTCPhotoWork]

We need to remember and regularly talk about death not just for the comparison to life or to be grateful for life. We need to remember and talk about it because, in this world, it IS normal. Sometimes tragic, sometimes unjust but still normal. That's not to say grief is easy or brief. The more we are accepting that death is not the opposite of life but part of it, the more we can grieve together, support each other through it, and not get absolutely lost in the darkness of grief. If we refuse to accept its normality, we hide in grief and take longer to come to peace when someone dies. We come up with words to censure it and add shame and isolation to the pain, confusion, and anger that come with grief. We deny ourselves relief by denying how inescapable (and, ultimately, ok) death is. We deserve to talk about it openly when we need or desire to. The same way that humans are nature (not outside of it), death is life. It's ok to ache for that. It's in that aching we can find Him.

[@klapeterson03]

When my grandpa passed away, I didn't cry. Not once. I've actually been relieved for him. His wife died almost 2 years ago, and he was devastated. He has done nothing but decline since she left. I didn't want him to stay on earth when his soul could be with his loving wife of 70 years. So it's okay to grieve differently. I miss him, and life is completely changed without them, but they were 92 and 94. What more could we ask for?!

[@carolyncourts6510]

Every day is a blessing. I am the primary caregiver for my 95 yr. old Dad. Watching the slow decline since covid, I realized at some point I was already grieving his passing. The stress is unbelievable, and I keep saying how much more can I take but I do because I know tomorrow maybe too late to share our time together. He has blessed me in so many ways.

[@klapeterson03]

@carolyncourts6510 Sadly, my dad and aunt stuck them both in a facility before my grandma died and once she did, they wouldn't let him go home. It turned out to be what he needed but I am sure that being somewhere besides his home sped up the decline also. I applaud you for being a full time caregiver. I cannot even imagine how tough that is

[@sarahsharkov8210]

I feel this. My parents were together for over 60 years. High School sweethearts. When my mom passed away about 7 years ago, he didn't know how to mail a letter, wash his clothes, etc. She, being a home maker, took care of everything and him. The cruelest thing I've ever witnessed, in my life, is my dad remaining alive on this earth. When it is his time to go, it's going to be joyous. He is going to be so happy. It's one of those things you don't understand until you see it with your own eyes.

​@carolyncourts6510 Anticipatory grief is a hard thing to go through, particularly as you don't know if today will be the last. Sending you love and warm hugs on your journey.

[@marybethwhalen70]

My grandmother died the day before her 99th birthday! She had a long glorious life. Her husband died very young and left her to raise 5 sons and 1 daughter all alone. Family was her saving grace. She had Alzheimer’s for YEARS before she passed…to the point that she didn’t remember me (and she raised me and I was the baby of the grandchildren). I feel like I grieved for her for years before she died because I lost her years before. I spoke at her funeral and did not shed a tear. My tears came throughout the ten or so years before her death. I still miss her every day but I can say that the grief I felt for her for so long was so much harder than her actual passing. Prayers to all who have suffered the loss of a loved one, human or animal.

[@michellepagan496]

I agree 100%. I homestead and breed dogs, I am also a nurse in a nursing home, taking care of those grandmas and grandpas that can’t be cared for at home. I have lost livestock and newborn puppies. Those didn’t affect me like finding out my 12 yr old dog had cancer. It was sad, and I know I made the best decision for her; not the decision that would have spared me pain. Losing the residents in my nursing home hurts, but I know that my floor staff and I took care of them the best way we know how and we gave them dignity and laughter and family for the time that they were with us. The death of my 11yr old son in a car accident was tragic and life altering. Death is hard, you’ll get through this one day at a time. You need to make the decisions that will leave you with the least amount of regret. Live life the best way that you know how. We will include your family and young cousins in our prayers.

[@katherinebelk8398]

Thank you for showing Bear ❤ I was thinking the worst.

[@justgoodness333littlehomes5]

My 1st thought was, " Please not Bear"

[@lynnhadley2036]

I am so sorry. There is nothing else anyone can say. Thank you so much for your openness. all of you are in my prayers for strength and perseverance in your grief.

[@FragmentedRadiance]

Thank you for being open and honest with your grief. I've had a lot and unfortunately this world really shames us for having it and we shouldn't be ashamed.

[@SheilaD7]

Girl, we all as Christians are dealing with some hard stuff right now we need to be lifting each other up, Encouraging one another and praying for one another.!❤️🙏🏻💕✝️

[@theresadevore9312]

Thank you for sharing this grief. I pray for our Lord Jesus Christ will comfort you and those children and their father. Thank you for sharing all what farm life is really like! Thank you most of all for your beautiful honesty ❤️ ❤❤

[@laureenahouchin2979]

Jess, your willingness to share your heart has shepherded me through so much of my own grief... losing homestead animals, babies, my grandpa, companion animals... I am covering your whole family in prayer. May you feel peace as you express your love through grief. ❤

[@teresehummel4502]

Grieve well, Jess, and as always, thank you for sharing openly and beautifully and meaningfully.

[@elisabethashe628]

My youngest daughter passed away 2 years ago no matter what it's always hard to talk about it. Thank you for the talking make me feel like I am not alone .

[@AlexandriaAndrews3]

Bless you Jess. What a terrible week. The loss of a young mother protecting her children, really puts into perspective the loss of a cow or goat. You're so right. When I lost my soul dog to cancer way to soon or was diagnosed with breast cancer at 34.... it really put into perspective the loss of a chicken when it drops dead or the loss of a barn cat (was still really sad for that one), but it's not the tragedy of a life taken too soon and lives altered forever. Bless that mama who lost her life protecting her babies, most mama's would do the same given the choice. Definitely shed some tears for that mama.

[@_modvault]

Thank you for sharing that quote from your friend, to grieve well, and that grief is an expression of love. It's a heartening perspective and helps more than you know 💖

[@tanyajstolp]

Thanks for walking through life's journey with us. Sometimes, it is so amazing, and other times, it hurts. Thanks for your love and honesty. This was very relatable today.

[@lcostantino7931]

cow needs a cooling blanket or her own room with AC dang.....what a tough decision .....poor Hope she was a trooper hanging on with such struggles ...prayer to all ...

[@loritanner4478]

Your last couple of weeks sound like my hubby and I, our last 4 years. The only way I'm still putting one foot in front of the other is my faith in God. My hubby and I have been married 46 years this year. And I can't believe all the horribleness we have went through this past 4 years. I pray that your horrible times are short lived. And I pray nobody reading this has to endure what we have. Blessings to you and your family. And may God hold you all in his hands.

[@michaelabeaver94]

It’s been 3.5 years since my 23 year old brother passed and the grief journey has been the wildest journey of my life. But today watching this video with tears running down my face, I smiled and nodded when you said what a privilege and joy grief is. Because even though I went through the hardest times of my life in this grief journey, life has been made so much sweeter in knowing that the Lord uses all things for good. That He uses dead things to bring life. That He weeps with us. Thank you ❤️

[@anitahouse3600]

oh honey, i'm so sorry.....praying for you and your family.

[@jamiewebb2235]

Yeah I understand what you are talking about unfortunately. I have lost a goat, two turkeys and MY great Pyrenees dog whom I loved very much. As hard as all those were... My family lost a very dear friend to us/our kids about a month ago. A 17 year old young lady (beautiful inside and out) was killed in a car accident. We loved her and we love her family. It is the second death of a young person directly connected to our family this year. It's been a hard year and I am finding more and more truth in it matters how you grieve. I will be praying for you and for your family... and that 2024 gets better

[@cherylh8924]

Jess, you've had a hard week and you are in our prayers.

[@BellaWoodsFarm]

Thank you for this. Your honesty and willingness to be vulnerable is something to be admired. I lost my father in a tragic farming accident that rendered him quadriplegic. He was hospital bound and on a ventilator for 6 months, until he asked to go home to Jesus. I lost my husband, and father of my two boys to suicide several years after that. Of all of the things I have learned through these tragic events, it is to live well and grieve well. Our time here and the time we have with our loved ones is precious and short. It should never be taken for granted.

[@leegaar8625]

This is such an important topic. Disappointing vs Sad vs Tragic. Thank you for putting it out there so vulnerably. ❤

[@theoneandonly1158]

Just a hug. A big long hug. ❤ 🙏🏼 Take break if need be. We are here.

[@kimberlyschiele1117]

Great Talk sweet Jess!. I absolutely love it when you get real on your channel. I learn so much from you and your devotionals...❤🥰😘

[@TheMorganHomestead]

You had me crying BIG tears again. Prayers to your family for their devastating loss. 🙏❤️🙏 Such relatable content. We started homesteading in 2020 and have lost chickens and ducks to predators, and a couple of chickens just died and we have lost many piglets as well. Yes, it is normal farm life, but it chips away at your heart nonetheless and sometimes I feel so sad I just cry. Not to mention how much time we spend just worrying. God bless you Jess, I am praying for you and your beautiful family also. 🙏❤️🙏

[@ivylady13]

Showing us life while we talk about death is full circle. Thank you.

[@Mrs.Dreadfulbliss]

I'm sorry to hear of yalls season of loss on the homestead and the grieving the lost of love ones that pasted.. Bless you and your family ❤

[@JaTon]

Thank you, Jess. Your compassion shows through in your decisions on your animals. You’ve done the kindest thing you could do for Hope. I know it’s still a hard decision to make. Prayers for your heart to heal. Much love and respect. ❤

[@sowemovedhere]

I’m so, so sorry. Praying for your family and for your cousin’s family.

[@TheHeartofHome]

Dear friend. I feel the weight you share so vulnerably with us. Thank you for baring the pain and sharing your heart with all of us. Your transparency gives the world a perspective most are shielded from or naive to. Praying intentionally for your heart and for Chaz and his family right now. Much love!

[@carolmayer9789]

Jess, thanks for your talk about death, it ia a subject not talked about enough. Prayers for you and your cousins family.❤ 🙏

[@cstorres8243]

I have no words. The power of this vlog speaks for itself. I am still amazed that often times we humans need to be told to grieve, to be true to ourselves and our hearts. Bless you and thank you for sharing your heart.

[@d14551]

Thank you for this video and in particular for pointing out the differences and connections amongst sadness, tragedy, grief and hard things.

[@justanotheryummymumm]

I feel how hard this video was for you to share. Thanks for your bravery and your honesty.

[@ChristinaMoore79]

I am so sorry for your family's loss. Thank you for being real and sharing your pain and truth with us.

[@melaniescott4214]

Those sweet children will always know the love of their mother, she shielded them until her last moments. My heart goes out to your cousin and his family. Truly heartbreaking.

[@shamancarmichael5305]

You are a wise soul, Jessica. Thank you for sharing your heart with us. ❤

[@Deadendhomestead]

Grief is something that learning to accept it is something that is so hard! When I lost my step son it was a very hard lesson and knowing your not alone is very important

[@nicky__jay]

Oh Jess, you have so much God given wisdom! ❤thank you my friend. 😊

[@roseintheplains6164]

We lost the patriarch of the family last year and we still grieve for him. But we know where he is and we will see him again. He was a father in law that was more of a dad. He always called me daughter never an in law. Just wanted to express my heartfelt condolences to your family. Blessings and prayers .

[@metalmartha2571]

🫶My condolences on the losses on your farm & your family♥️ how terribly devastating! How proper to do something joyful while talking about something heavy! Regarding your last devotional video, I had posted that my uncle passed away and that I needed a devotional video to help process some grief thank you♥️While I called family members to inform them of my sweet Uncle Andy‘s passing, I weeded the hospital flowerbeds. I needed to do something joyful while I was forced to do something painful. Sending all the love to you and your family, your tomato basket looks lovely♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️

[@SweetPeppersFarm]

Grief is love, it's not pretty but we must remind ourselves where the roots of grief grow. In the absence of something we love. Thank you always, and bless you Jess.

[@cherri0228]

I am so sorry. Last year I lost my 32 yo son to an overdose and I had to make the decision to set my 6 yo girl dog free from the cancer that destroyed her little body. My heart aches for you I feel your pain. Unfortunately the only definite in life is that we all have an end date. Loss is hard but it’s a fact of life. Sometime I wanna just close my eyes and not think about it. But it lightens the load on me when I talk about it. It helps my heart to believe that will see them again when I go. Thank you for sharing your life with us. Thank you for being you. 🙏❤️

[@justgoodness333littlehomes5]

🙏

[@shadowlandsfarmandcreamery5400]

This summer we had to put down the last remaining daughter of our original goat herd queen due to her failing health. It was hard, I feel you on this. Love you and your mindsets about farming, it makes me feel less alone. Praying for your family and their broken hearts. I'm proud of her for shielding her babies, she died doing what we all hope we would do in that situation.💔

[@CarolynOfria-hn3ty]

Prayers going up for Katlin's husband, children, and your family. Thank you for sharing this with us so we may all lift them up. Big hug sent your way.

[@christinecoe1827]

I’m sorry for your losses. A huge week. There is no need to justify the decisions about Hope. This is clear. The mama shielding her children is heartbreaking. Big love.

[@kathykarstaedt5243]

I think you made a merciful, right decision for Hope. Thanks for sharing the Hard stuff. I keep you and your family in my prayers.

[@chelseagarchar4338]

My heart broke, hearing all this. Especially number 3. It is unfortunately the reality of being homesteaders, farmers, and just life❤ My prayers are with you and your family.