The sudden death of a Navy Admiral rocked our country. It also left a devastated family in its wake.

        Mike Boorda patiently worked his way up to the highest ranking position of the Navy. He wore a chestful of ribbons that proudly showcased forty years of diligent service. Lately he came under scrutiny for wearing a pin some said he didn’t earn.

        On the afternoon reporters were to meet with him, Admiral Boorda slipped away to his home at the Naval Yard. Unable to face the shame and dishonor, he stepped into his back yard and shot himself.

        I want you to take a moment and pray for Mike Boorda’s family right now. When a person takes his life, the survivors experience UNBEARABLE grief. Painful questions roll through their minds:

“Why didn't he warn us?”
“Was there something I could have done to stop him?”

        Admiral Boorda's story may have re-opened old wounds in your heart. Perhaps you know well the anguish of losing a family member or friend to suicide. Because of its stigma, your family may be reluctant to talk about the victim. I want to encourage you to work through this grief and find some healing in your pain.

        The apostle Paul says we are to "weep with those who weep." Let's do that. And when we are the one weeping, let’s find some sensitive friends with whom we can pour out our heart. We must let the tears flow. They’re designed by God to express our pain and provide release. At the same time, let’s open our heart fully and honestly to God. Remember Jesus wept over the death of Lazarus. He also cries with you!