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We are taking some time to catch up with some of our previous team members. Where are they now?

Today we are catching up with Jill Byard. You can read some of her articles here and here.

Jill was widowed since May of 2010 when her husband died suddenly in an accident. She joined the AWM around 2014 or 2015.

God taught her early in her widowhood to lean in and listen to what He had for her, focus on Him and not be so dependent on the opinion of others. She says, “It took me a while to actually practice those consistently!”

Currently she is on staff at her church.

I try to connect with people who have experienced loss in their lives and let them know I’m honored to listen. I was blessed when people were willing to throw “cold water” on me when I was on fire. It’s my privilege to reach out and do the same.

What would you tell yourself about God, if you could go back to the early days of widowhood?

He knows you. He loves you. He’s always going to provide a way. He’s always faithful.

What are some blessings you have received along your widow journey? Has God helped you pass these along to others?

I have received the blessing of more empathy for others. God has used it to encourage me to reach out to people that were devastated by my husband’s death. They ran the other way and didn’t want to face it. He’s given me courage to share with them how He has been faithful.

Were there any specific ways God used the AWM team or readers in your healing process?

I believe God used the AWM team to help me find purpose in my journaling and to be reminded He is faithful in every circumstance. To realize even when you are disappointed and devastated you can still reach out and make a small difference when someone else is experiencing pain, devastation, or loneliness.

I’m forever grateful for the phone calls, the emails, and the way the AWM Team always kept pointing to Jesus.

My three girls are all grown now and I have two grandchildren and 9 grand fur babies. I am currently enjoying loving my adult kids and cuddling fur babies, my grandson and granddaughter.

My favorite Scripture verse right now are found in Isaiah.

I will go before you
And make the crooked places straight;
Isaiah 45:2 NKJV

Yet I will not forget you.
See, I have inscribed you on the palms of My hands;
Isaiah 49:15-16 NKJV

If you would like to reach out to us, email us at admin@awidowsmight.org. Do you have questions about your faith? We would love to walk with you on your faith journey and help you find healing during your grief. Visit our website.