Good Grief 

Knowing WHERE he is and WHO he is with changes the impact of the stages of grief. There is an underlying joy that we have as Christians when our loved ones ascend. I hope that with your platform you can share and expand that knowledge so others can see Christ in you. You two are doing a great job. Just take each day as it comes and stay in the word. The word expands and grows in us when we go through these moments. Much love to you both and your family.

Losing a parent is the most bizarre mix of feelings ever. Like Andrew said, there has been 20 days that he has been on this planet without a father. I lost my Dad 6 years ago and I so felt that statement. It's a whole different feeling that no one really thinks about until it happens. God bless you and your family ❤️

I lost my brother at 5, mom at 21 and dad at 24. You are addressing grief in a very healthy way. Everyone’s grief journey is unique and your own🙏🏻🙏🏻

Shawn, I love how you refer to him as dad, and Andrew’s family as yours. It’s really beautiful. These days a lot of people, including myself, don’t see their in-laws as their own family and would never call them them mom & dad. It’s really refreshing to see

I am in the trenches with you. I lost my 27 yo son almost 3 months ago. Parents should not have to bury their children. Hardest thing I have ever had to deal with and I’m struggling to make sense of it. It helps knowing he is with my mom, his NeNe, in heaven. Love you guys and your family. Praying for continued strength as you all navigate through this change in life.

I also had a wonderful godly father. He was apart of my daily life. He has been gone 9 years. I still have times that I miss him so badly that I breakdown and cry. Christmas is especially hard because he loved Christmas. He will always be a part of me. I know that he is with his Lord and Savior. My daughter named her son after my father. I wish my dad could see him. I also had a dream of my father talking to me two days after he died. I think that is Gods comforting Holy Spirit. As a Christian, God provides the comforter.

Mr. East was a great man and role model for many. Thanks for sharing Andrew.

I can't tell you how amazing this video is. 1. Seeing how supportive a spouse can be in such difficult times is beautiful. Watching Shawn in the way she loves and respects Andrew shows me what I have been missing. 2. Hearing Andrew work through his grief in such a thoughtful way gives me so much hope. That breakdown he takes on each statement is so emotional and yet perfect in its connection to the Lord. 3. The respect the two of them show for family, whether it be siblings or in-laws, is absolutely breathtaking. Having the ability to love and grieve with everyone in your family is a blessing and I truly enjoyed listening to you two talking about the way you did this. You are a beautiful couple, and God will continue to bless your family.

Andrew I lost my dad when I was 29 he was 56. It has been 14 years he’s been gone. I want you to know it never feels “back to normal” it’s just a new normal. The stages of grief come at different times for different people. At the 2 year mark I actually had to take a low dose anti depressant because grief was so overwhelming. I had never need any type of medication. It shook me. All that to say don’t be afraid to process everything you need to and be aware that it’ll come in waves.

Watching this three weeks after I lost my dad. Thank you for being so vulnerable and sharing your thoughts and how you're processing everything. How blessed are we to know that our dads are in heaven with Jesus. That is what has given me peace through this sad time.

Shawn, kudos to you for quietly allowing Andrew to just speak uninterrupted about his dad, and sharing your love of family and faith. Andrew, the hurt of losing your dad, as your one friend mentioned, will never go away. You do learn to live through it. You already expressed how his legacy will live through you. His most important example was that of his love for our Living Lord. Hold tight to your relationship with Christ Jesus. Dig into the scriptures so that your own children will have the opportunity to live with their grandpa's love of God through you and Shawn. Missing my dad since 2016.

I lost my dad unexpectedly in 2021 - this episode was hard but so good to listen to. I have always felt like I wasn’t grieving the right way, but hearing your thoughts and feelings is comforting knowing I am not alone. Andrew, the days will get easier .. you will be able to talk about your dad without tears every time, the sadness will turn to more smiles and laughter. I try to think how lucky I am to have someone like my dad to miss, to have had his love and guidance for the years he was here and to know he lived his life until his last moment. ❤️

Andrew, you are so eloquent with your words, and you are both mourning well! What an incredible testimony of the goodness of God in the midst of loss! You will be reunited in heaven one day! The tears and sadness of this life is temporary, but for all who know Jesus, we have the hope of eternity in heaven! Thank you for being light in the darkness! Glory to His name!!!

I lost my Dad in 1995, 28 days later I lost my mom because she grieved herself to death. It was tough to deal with but as a family we got through it with a lot of help from God and family and friends. Grief will come in waves and it will hit you pout of no where , with Gods help and your beautiful family you will be fine , some days you will question that but you will be fine. Prayers for you and your family.

My father had dementia for years before he died. Which he is finally not in pain and this happened a year ago on my daughters wedding day. Your words are so true. I think going fast would have been easier than watching your loved one slowly die. It’s so crazy how grief pops up even a year later & tears are flowing hearing your thoughts on this topic. Praying for you that your continue to have peace & comfort ❤

You can't overmemorialize your dad, Andrew! He is more alive then ever in heaven! Keep letting your heart speak of you dad and bless his life! Thank you for sharing! It blessed me! 💞🙏

This was beautiful. Andrew you do not need to apologize for your emotions. Own them and talk all you want about your dad. Your feelings are your own and no one should judge that. Peace and prayers to you and your family.

I lost my dad unexpectedly when I was 11, over 20 years ago now. Grief is definitely a fluid continual process, and I have to continually remind myself of that even all this time later. A few years ago, I read somewhere that over time your grief doesn’t get smaller, but your heart continues to grow around that grief. I’ve felt that so much over the years, and clinging to knowing that he’s with Jesus has pulled me through more times than I can count. I’m so sorry for your loss, and I hope you find comfort in remembering your father. ❤

I am so sorry 😢 Andrew I’m very sorry he was your best friend.

Beautiful. Thank you. I lost my dad suddenly at 64 many years ago and I’m still cycling grief; as others have said in the phrases you hear, in memories and so much more. Even smell. My dad had a huge old oak desk in his office and I requested it when the day came and received it. But I could never use it despite my efforts. Each time I opened a drawer I smelled his after shave scent. So I sat beside his desk, at my smaller desk for many years. He sat beside every day of my life for many years. May God continue to richly bless you and your family. ❤

The Lord is good and His mercy endures forever!! I lost my mom to cancer 3 years ago. I love your perspectives on all of these things. My favorite memory of the morning of my mom’s passing was her last breath here and the next being with her Savior!!

I lost my mom suddenly at 71 and everything you are saying is so real to me. You will be going through this for a long while.

You earned a new guardian angel! I know Andrew mentioned how great of a dad and leader he was, but that leading doesn’t stop. He’s still looking over you and leading you ❤️

I lost my dad in 1998, in 2028 it will be 30 years, and I still find myself grieving that loss. Anger, depression, resentment that my kids never got to know the most incredible man I was blessed being a part of. It's a real struggle, and I feel like it will be constant. Many blessing on your journey of grief.

The following is the most profound description of grief, & what to expect moving forward, that I’ve ever read, & I share it with *anyone* who needs to hear it. It’s long, but very worth the read!…. Someone on reddit wrote the following heartfelt plea online: "My friend just died. I don't know what to do." A lot of people responded. Then there's one old guy's incredible comment that stood out from the rest that might just change the way we approach life and death. This is what the old man wrote: "Alright, here goes. I'm old. What that means is that l've survived (so far) and a lot of people I've known and loved did not. I've lost friends, best friends, acquaintances, co-workers, grandparents, parents, relatives, teachers, mentors, students, neighbors, and a host of other folks. I have no children, and I can't imagine the pain it must be to lose a child. But here's my two cents: I wish I could say you get used to people dying. I never did. I don't want to. It tears a hole through me whenever somebody I love dies, no matter the circumstances. But I don't want it to "not matter". I don't want it to be something that just passes. My scars are a testament to the love and the relationship that I had for and with that person. And if the scar is deep, so was the love. So be it. Scars are a testament to life. Scars are a testament that I can love deeply and live deeply and be cut, or even gouged, and that I can heal and continue to live and continue to love. And the scar tissue is stronger than the original flesh ever was. Scars are a testament to life. Scars are only ugly to people who can't see. As for grief, you'll find it comes in waves. When the ship is first wrecked, you're drowning, with wreckage all around you. Everything floating around you reminds you of the beauty and the magnificence of the ship that was, and is no more. And all you can do is float. You find some piece of the wreckage and you hang on for a while. Maybe it's some physical thing. Maybe it's a happy memory or a photograph. Maybe it's a person who is also floating. For a while, all you can do is float. Stay alive. In the beginning, the waves are 100 feet tall and crash over you without mercy. They come 10 seconds apart and don't even give you time to catch vour breath. All you can do is hang on and float. After a while, maybe weeks, maybe months. you'll find the waves are still 100 feet tall, but they come further apart. When they come, they still crash all over you and wipe you out. But in between, you can breathe, you can function. You never know what's going to trigger the grief. It might be a song, a picture, a street intersection, the smell of a cup of coffee. It can be just about anything…and the wave comes crashing. But in between waves, there is life. Somewhere down the line, and it's different for everybody, you find that the waves are only 80 feet tall. Or 50 feet tall. And while they still come, they come further apart. You can see them coming. An anniversary, a birthday, or Christmas, or landing at 0'Hare. You can see it coming, for the most part, and prepare yourself. And when it washes over you, you know that somehow you will, again, come out the other side…Soaking wet, sputtering, still hanging on to some tiny piece of the wreckage, but you’ll come out. Take it from an old guy. The waves never stop coming, and somehow you don't really want them to. But you learn that you’ll survive them. And other waves will come. And you'll survive them too. If you're lucky, you'll have lots of scars from lots of loves. And lots of shipwrecks" ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

Andrew & Shawn, Thank you for being soooooo raw and real. We need folks with your balanced perspective in moving generations forward with technology on platforms like this if we are to be able to reach the world! This platform is exactly that! You both are a LIVING testimony of the faith and courage of ppl like Guy East tilling dry soil where someone else likely planted, watered, fertilized and/or harvested him to be the foundation for your legacy after him. I love that while we all have choices in life no matter our lot- we can CHOOSE TO CHANGE to become a legacy with whatever God has for each of us. We just have to ASK. SEEK. KNOCK ✊ and he will provide a Guy or Andrew or Shawn or Me ☺️ or anyone to pour into. God bless you 2! You touch my heart more than words express.

My dad died with a heart attack, easier for my dad, tougher for family. My mom died of cancer and suffered and fought for 4 months. We got to say goodbye, easier on family to say to goodbye while she was alive. My mom has been gone 29 years and my dad 25 years. And I was thinking and reminiscing as you were talking about your experience. I don't think that ever goes away. And crying is a release, doesn't matter who you are. Carry tissues with you for the next couple of months for those times that sneak up on you.

I lost my dad about a year ago whos my bestfriend passed at 62. I was in tears this entire episode. This episode meant so much to me because the process is so different for everyone dealing with loss but you opening up about this means so much to so many people. Thank you east fam, stay strong and I’m keeping you guys in my prayers. ❤

I am so sorry for your loss. You have an amazing extended family. I lost two male family friends with the same heart situation. We were told it was one of the strange side effects of the virus injection. I rejoice with you that your father as well as my dear friends are in the presence of the Lord. You both are so precious and I love all that you represent. I will keep you in my prayer.

The strangest things will cause you grief and angst for as long as you need them to be there. I lost my Dad when I was 9.... and my Mom when I was 56. They were and continue to be very different kinds of grief. You are allowed to feel whatever you need to feel to make it from day to day.... don't let anyone force you to think any differently. My sincere condolences to you both and your family. Life isn't always easy... we learn to navigate as best we can. Your path through grief is your own. Thank you for tackling a very difficult situation.

I’m watching this and feeling so grateful for my husband who stood beside me and comforted me while I ordered my mother’s ventilation to be shut off yesterday morning after she was declared brain dead from an aneurysm. I’m so sorry for your loss Andrew and Shawn. Our angels will make heaven a little sweeter.

I lost my mom 6 years ago. My best friend and twin. I’m so thankful to have had the opportunity to witness to her and be there whenever she asked Jesus in her heart. Grief is so difficult and different for everyone. Thank you guys for sharing your story. Praying for y’all’s family.

I heard a pastor say when his dad died. A quick death is GOD’S kiss upon the soul. It gives me great comfort. My heart was broken when my dad died at 57 like your dad. My mother suffered so long I could really appreciate the quick death upon the soul. Your family will be in my prayers.🙏❤️

This is the most important part and also natural way of grieving. Communication and acknowledgement of how you feel and expressing your emotions. The grief process is a true reflection and you will experience them all, over and over again. The first 5 years are the toughest, the first year is the worst. Keep your communication with each other first and do not feel guilty for how long you grieve.

I lost my dad 40 years ago and my mother 20 years ago. Your honest, raw grief triggered grief or memory of grief for them. I will never stop missing them.

Hearing about Andrew's dream made me cry. I lost a very close friend in a car accident when he was 27 years old. Close to three weeks after I had the most realistic dream I have ever had. I could hear his voice singing, see in extreme clarity the details of his face and in the middle of the dream I started crying cause I knew it wasn't real and that I would wake up at some point. When I did wake up, I had been crying for a while and my pillow was soaked. I remember thinking, and still to this day feel like, this is such a blessing. It was almost like it was the best last memory I could have of him. It was beautiful and I am grateful for it.

Andrew, I am so deeply sorry. I feel your pain because our family went through something very similar. Sending you prayers for God’s complete comfort and peace. Cling to your wonderful memories for they will see you through the years. You will always feel the pain but God will enable you to manage the grief through the years.

My dad died 24 years ago and watching your podcast brought back all that grief again. It never really ends. When you talked about getting angry how other people were just living their lives like nothing happened. I remember going our to a store to pick up something and how mad I got that not everyone was grieving my dad. 24 years later I still remember that so vividly. Things change and get easier I guess but you never get "over" it. A loss like that is too great. I am a Christian as was my dad. I know I will see him again and get that bear hug. I often wonder what people do or how they cope without that hope. I am so sorry for you loss.

Your love for your Dad is very evident. No one really prepares you to lose a parent. I lost my dad in December 2020. He was my hero and I will miss him every day. You were so blessed to have all the wonderful memories of him and to have just spent Christmas with him. May God bless you and continue to heal your grief. Your family is in my prayers daily.

My dad died the exact same way, 11 years ago at age 45. I was 24 at the time. Literally would have never imagined in a million years that would be it. 🙏🏽🕊️

I have no idea how you are doing this episode. When my mom died I was absolutely destroyed and cried everyday for a solid year. thank you for sharing.

I'm so sorry Andrew. What a beautiful example he was for all. God is in the center

I Loved what Shawn said about being able to navigate through the stages of grief throughout life. It's so true, because as I sit here listening to your podcast, I'm crying my eyes out. I lost my Dad 23 years ago January 7th. I hate to say I'm still heartbroken, despite knowing he's in Heaven and not in pain anymore, but I still and always will miss my Dad and my best friend 💔 😢 🕊

It’s been nearly 7 years since I lost my dad and it still doesn’t seem real. Your dad visiting you in your dream is to let you know he’s ok I totally believe this.

This! Without a doubt was 100% what I needed to hear. My prayer is that you continue to share your Dad's life. Thank you just isn't enough for sharing. Sending you all the peace and comfort for your heart and soul.

I have lost my Dad this year. It has been very difficult. Thank you Andrew for being helpful. I am very sorry for his loss.

Thank you so much for being so open and sharing. We lost my dad 2 years ago to late onset ALS. His decline was so quick. Thankfully my husband and two children were able to be in the states to be with him. We returned to the mission field a few months later and it still feels like a dream. I started crying when you talked about your dream. I also had a dream about my dad and woke up sobbing because it felt so real and I had to call my mom and tell her about it. I’ll be praying for you and your beautiful family.

Hearing your heart through your experience is so valuable. The love and strength in your perspectives is such a beautiful gift that you share. Im grateful for your willingness to share the experience of walking through life. Praying for you and your family. Isn't it beautiful, the ripple effect of others who maybe you have never met, sharing tears of joy through your words and your stories and memories, and the impact it has on others. Thank you for this episode. Thank you for putting content out in the world that builds strength in others.

Andrew and Shawn - I am so sorry! Your Dad sounds like he was such an awesome man who loved Jesus!! As you guys said, can you imagine when your Dad saw Jesus!! What a homecoming! Please remember there is no right or wrong way to grieve. Give yourself grace and treasure all the beautiful memories you have. It sounds like your Dad did a wonderful job making memories for his family. God's Blessings!!!

So sorry about your dad Andrew but like you said God Is Good . And heaven got amazing man he is singing and watching your family and your his amazing bride . Prayers to your wonderful family.

Thank you so much for sharing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. As I listened and the tears rolled down my face - I can agree with Shawn- the different stages of grief come and go. I lost my dad in 2010 and things will still pop up and I catch myself crying or angry or confused, etc. Love you all!

I'm so sorry that you lost your dad. I lost mine too, but much older. I fact, your dad was a year older than me. I hope my daughter dies not have to bear this kind of grief for a long time. We knew my dad was dying. My mom died in the hour I went out to get her medication. That was a shock I'm not over. You have handled this with grace, dignity and humor. It's all needed. Keep your family close. My deepest condolences. Your dad was a huge part of your world. ❤️

My heart aches for you. Loosing a parent is hard and there would be no devastating grief if there was no incredible, huge love!!! I pray the Lord will bless your whole family with peace and comfort. Thank you for your statement that God is good. He is all knowing and the word “coincidence” is not in His vocabulary. Andrew, everything that happened between you and your dad, in the past few months, was part of the Lord’s plan. The most beautiful part of that plan, in this loss stage of our lives, is that we will see our loved ones again! It doesn’t make it any easier for those of us left here on earth, but knowing we will see them again gives us reason to live in partnership with the Lord, so those who have gone before us will be proud. Your dad loves you and is watching over you and your family. Relish in that love as you find a new “normal” in your life. The only people who think there’s a time limit for grief, have never lost a piece of their heart.

Thinking of you guys! I lost my mom when I was really young so I can unfortunately understand what it’s like to lose a parent when they had a lot of life left to live. Grief is complicated, but important to talk about so I’m glad you guys are shedding light on this topic. Continuing to pray for you guys as the weeks & months pass by!

I’m sorry for your families loss. I have been praying for you all during this time. I read about your dad (and know it doesn’t do justice to knowing your dad) and he seems so amazing. You are your dads living legacy, each and everyone of you.

No one ever loses the feeling of grief, it doesn't go away--, people just learn to live with grief.

I ve watched this again...Again .again.. Thank You... Shawn...You really gave me a truly more emotions. Still hard.

I start watching this 12 minutes ago and I’m crying. The long grief part, food, things make you remember. I remember my dad Almost every day. 2 years have been pass since my dad die sleeping sitting in my living room, watching tv, my kids playing there,me folding laundry like 3 feet’s away from him. I feel blessed it happen that way. Yes it was the hardest thing I ever experienced in my life, but he was in peace.

Yes to all of this!!! Being the "in-law" you just want to help and be there for everyone. I know how it feels, I lost both of my parents in 4 years, my dad in 2018 and my mom in 2021 and then I ended up losing my Father in law not even a year after my mom passed. I was the rock for my husband, sister-in-law and Mother-in-law as well and planned most of his funeral because they could not, I did not want to show my emotions because I knew they needed me but at his wake I lost it when the police department gave their final salute to him and I just could not hold it back. You are never going to get over losing them but it does get easier but you will think of them every day no matter what.

The best analogy I've found for grief is that grief is a ball in a box. Life is the box, and grief is the ball. In that box is a botton that is pain. At first, the grief ball is huge and takes up all the space in your life, so it is constantly pushing on that pain button. As time passes, the ball gets smaller, so it presses on the pain button less often. As the ball gets smaller and pushes on the pain button less, you can continue life with less pain, but when the ball hits the button, it is just as painful as when it first started. The pain doesn't become less. The grief ball just hits it less often. And some days, that ball feels just as big as ever. But it's nice to know that it won't always feel like that.

Give you all big hugs... Everything your feeling is valid... But thanks for always sharing this process of your grief... I lost my mom last yr but never had a relationship like you did your father.. But she was my mom... And I wish but will never understand the love you shared with your dad & family. Always a joy to watch your videos and burst of laughter...

I lost my sweet mom Thanksgiving week 2022. It was quick for her as well! 10 days in ICU on life support. My dad had to make the tough decision to take her off of LS as he knew she was ready to meet Jesus too. She loved the Lord and she loved people, never meeting a stranger. She too left a legacy. 4 children and their spouses and grandchildren are all saved as well and all love Jesus as well, many are in full time ministry.. Before we took her off of LS we celebrated her 90th Bday in the ICU w/her family; grandchildren and even grandchildren w/balloons and banners. Everyone kissed her goodbye knowing that was the last time on this side. My siblings and my dad were by her side and only had to watch her suffer 40 min before she took her last breath and entered the arms of Jesus. A bittersweet moment as we all know Jesus and knew where she was going. Ironically, she loved her praise music so we kept it playing by her bedside on her phone while in the ICU. God in His graciousness the moment she took her last breath… the song “I can only imagine” was playing on her phone 😊 Unlike your Dad, she had reached a ripe ole age and had been saying for months, I’m ready to go home! Yes, I have my hard days and I think about the wonderful ways of my mom and all that she taught me about life! Life is good! We know where our parents are and the greatest gift of all is knowing we will join them on our final journey! Our job now is to continue carrying on their mission: be a blessing to all God brings across our pathway. Thanks for so much for sharing your story! ( I have on occasion asked God to give my mom a message…) Blessings upon both of you and your families!

Andrew, nothing is coincidence, it's all in God's timing. My sincerest condolences, you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.✨🙏💖🙏✨

Great podcast!! Shawn is so right about the “7 steps” they don’t end. I lost my Dad over 47 years ago and I still grieve, I still go through the steps! Blessings to you both

Keeping your family in my prayers. Andrew, your family has gained an angel watching over you and yours. What a powerful podcast. Thank you for being so generous with your thoughts and how you are dealing with emotions. Rest In Peace, Guy.

Unexpectedly lost my dad in April of this year (2024) at 61. My parents were married nearly 37 years. He leaves his wife, 3 kids, 2 in-laws he considered his, and 4 grandkids(2 which are mine). This really HIT home.

It has been 2 1/2 years since my dad passed. There are still many times it comes to my brain, oh I should tell or show dad. Then reality slaps me upside the head. Keep holding onto to God and your faith. For my dad it was not expected either. I know when my sister told me he passed I screamed. My husband said he hopes to never hear me do that again. God for sure helped me through it. The fact that my dad was absolutely with God in Heaven, helped so much. Andrew not a cry baby at all. You are totally being intentional with your thoughts and feeling. My dad took every opportunity to witness to others. Keep sharing your thoughts and feelings.

And dear heart Shawn..you are heartbroken also...you will know what to do..he will emotionally lead the way..and you lived Dad also...big love for you..your an angel.

Andrew and Shawn, I admire your transparency and watching your feelings so much! I lost my husband of 43 years one year ago yesterday. He had been sick for many years so I had a long time to say good-bye and to prepare. Reflecting on either way, the end result is the same, your heart is broken! Faith will help you every day, God is so good!

Thank you so much for sharing your grief,I needed to hear this today. I lost my daughter recently to cancer it was short and fast. She was in her 30s and I’m in my 50s . You shared many things that I feel and like the world went on and I’m lost . She was my best friend and only daughter. I hope you continue to share so people like us don’t feel like we are like a disease and alone . This is so hard and unless you find other people that are sharing their stories it’s hard to make sense of it all. Love your channel and perspective on life challenges. Prayers for your family and mom

You grieve as much as you loved. ❤ There isn’t a timeline for grief. I lost my dad in 2015 & I’m still grieving & crying. I miss him so much. Don’t let anyone tell you how long to grieve. You grieve in your own time. I’m so very sorry for your loss.

This was incredibly moving. I feel so deeply about everything you touched on. Shawn said one thing that really stuck out to me and that was “we knew he loved us and we loved him”. Which I know may come across as a little cliche with me saying this but that is all we ever want so truly and deeply for our parents and I am so thankful I got the same with my dad. He was truly my best friend. However I will say that it’s been almost 5 years of mine passing, I lost my dad at 24, sometimes it still feels like yesterday and I still feel like he’s in another room somewhere, but within seconds I realize he’s not because his energy was just so loud and bright that everything else doesn’t compare. I still feel those waves of “oh my gosh, he’s really gone” and my heart aches all over again. He lived a beautiful life and I have no regrets, just my own deep feelings of selfishly wanting him still here. Just knowing I get to see him again one day, brings me comfort that however life works out, I’ll be reuniting with him on the other side of it all. ❤ I’m very sorry for your loss, the way you talk about him, he sounds like such a colourful person ❤

Thank you for sharing your pain, love and support of one another as you grieve. I lost my husband almost 7 years ago. Andrew you were spot on about sudden passing vs long term sickness. Johnny had cancer, yes we had time to say and do anything we wanted. However, watching him suffer was difficult. This content is BEAUTIFUL and so NEEDED. Grief comes in waves. Being vulnerable and Sharing your pain allows others to see they are NOT alone. The legacy your family is creating is Divinely guided. I am so grateful for the opportunity to witness your testimony of Faith as you grieve/Celebrate your dad!!🙏💜✝️🤍🙏

This is SO BEAUTIFUL! I feel so blessed that you shared all of this , along with your dad’s service with us. Through tears, I am both inspired and envisioned. What a wonderful man. How blessed you all were to be his children, grandchildren, wife, friend, and brother. I obvisously don’t know you all, but I will be praying for you all as you navigate this separation from your Dad. Thank God for the eternity you will all get together as you follow Jesus and your Dad’s example with abandon. ♥️🙏🏻

Thanks for doing this. I lost my mother. So sorry for your great lost. Prayers of comfort to you and your whole family.

I am not sure if this will help you all, or any one else; but, this is the most helpful piece of wisdom that was shared with me in the grief I have been walking in the last 12 months. The grief process is not a straight path, however it is a process that demands to be felt. In this process you are learning how to take all the feelings and love that feel like carrying a boulder and transform them into a beautiful gem. This gem is something that you can carry with you with ease and gratitude. When you feel it in you pocket or hold it in your hand you can smile as you take your love one with on your journey.

Thanks for this. I cried throughout. I lost my dad a year and a half ago and I still get overwhelming feelings of loss. It’s gets better but never goes away. Talking about it helps so much. Sending big hugs and lots of love. Xx

I lost my mom in 2017 and my dad in 2019. I equate grief to waves. Sometimes, the waves are gentle and just swell around your ankles, sometimes they are a little more intense, and so.etimes they swamp you and threaten to drag you under. You can't fight it, give in, let it come over you, and ride the swell. It will ease and you will be okay. My heart breaks for you and your family. God bless you all.

Sorry for your loss and thank you for sharing your story. Losing my brother to leukemia 19 years ago and my dad to lung cancer 5 years ago I can tell you that grief will def come in waves. They were my best friends my family was one strong close family. Losing a loved one is like no other pain. It will hit you like a ton of bricks at times no matter how many years go by. The best thing is to never hold your emotions inside alone, let them always out, talking about your dad sharing his memories with those that knew or loved him, knowing he is always with you, talk to him, when you dream of him write down your dreams of him of what you can remember it’s their way of coming and speaking to us from the other side. I also dreamt a lot about my dad and brother when they first passed. Remember grief is an abundance of love we have for that person and now feels like it has no place to go. But know you have to grieve and you will , your love for him is still felt by him hopefully one day we will all meet again. Those of us who have experienced loss so young have more empathy and appreciation for the little things in life it truly does change you as a person. You learn what is the most important thing in life which is family and health. Strength and prayers your way to you all. And know to always take life in grief and in joy one day at a time tomorrow is never promised for any of us. ❤

I'm so sorry for your loss. Andrew, I am sure that after passing down much of the values and knowledge your father shared with you, Drew and Jett will be saying the same things as you in the future, feeling blessed to have had such a wonderful Dad - Something that is not guaranteed in life.

God sent 🙌🙏 I lost my dad 02-01-23. I miss him so much. God bless you both and whole family.

Andrew, Shawn and the East Fam, I’m so sorry for your loss😥. I lost my Mum on St Patrick’s Day. Haven’t really dealt with the grief as I had to hold it together for everyone else so I was just in the mindset of ignore and override that it hasn’t hit me yet.

Grief can strike you out of the blue. It can drop you to your knees. Those steps you mention can happen at any time and in no order and happen over and over. I’ve found grief never ends (any form).

So sorry for your sudden loss.your story was so beautiful and was touching to me.I am a true believer that our loved ones are still here with us and they come to visit us in our dreams.So glad you had all good times with your dad before hand.your story made me realize even more to make sure our last memories are good ones, to never have a moment of being mad at your loved ones,to make sure last words spoken i will never regret.We just never know if we will get the chance to make it right.We always want to be able to look back and know our last everything will not way heavy on our heart the rest of our days.

Next Monday will be 3 years since losing my mom and listening to this I felt your pain and it breaks my heart bc it’s a pain you don’t want anyone to understand. Thank you for being open and sharing I love hearing your perspective and your story of a sudden lose bc mine was a long slow lose bc she was sick for so long and you shined a light that even after 3 years I find hard time find, so for that I thank you. Grief is like a ocean and it comes and goes in waves it’s a wild ass ride. Loved hearing Shawn’s perspective bc my spouse didn’t really express he’s emotions through it all bc he was so focused on making sure I was okay. I loved hearing you guys talk about how not only are you grieving the lose of him but also the lose of the life you planned to have with them here and now their not and that sometimes is even harder. Grateful for this podcast thank you guys for being vulnerable

I lost my mom on July 10, 2022. Even though we knew her time left on earth was limited, her Drs felt we would have one last Christmas together. God had other plans. I will always be grateful that I had gone to her house and fixed her hair 10 minutes before she died. I kissed her and told her how much I loved her. Her caregiver called me just as I pulled up in my driveway (5 minutes away from her house) and told me she was slumped over in her recliner non responsive. I still miss our daily phone calls and still catch myself calling her number on the way home from work.

My father passed away suddenly at 62, also from a heart attack in his sleep. It’s been 20 years now, and sometimes it still feels like yesterday. He came to me during a dream about a week or two after he passed. That gave me such peace. I needed that so bad. I miss him all the time, but he sends me signs ALL THE TIME. Crazy as it sounds, they come at the most random and unexpected times. They always make me smile.

My Dad passed away 12 years ago, just 4 days before my 31st birthday. It was also Dec, 21st... Just 4 days before Christmas. My husband & I were devastated. We had to drive from Chicago to Texas to get to my family & the funeral, during the holidays. We cried the whole 28 hour drive there. We all felt my Dad drew us together for the holiday, that we otherwise wouldn't have been together for. Also, we'd been battling infertility & multiple miscarriages for 7 yrs up to that point... But after my Dad passed we naturally conceived & had 3 beautiful kids. I feel he is our Angel and had something to do with that. They each have a trait of his, especially my middle daughter is SO much like him. She says she sees him in our house ever since she was a baby, even though she never met him. Your dad will always be with you guys in spirit and I think the way you express your love and loss is just beautiful and amazing.

Thank you! This is so timely. Today is my father in law’s birthday. He died in August 2021. What a beautiful family you all have…to be able to come together in love and support for each other. My heart breaks for my husband because it’s not like the same in our family. Your story brings HOPE❤❤❤

Grief is not linear dearest Andrew & Shawn. It ebbs and flows in and out of emotional cycles as life events come and go. Also- God is showing me that since we are made in His image as a 3 in one being, life affects our body, soul & spirit. The soul => our thoughts and feelings which make up our choices and will. 🥰. And- it’s ok to have all emotions. We in 🇺🇸 have morphed all emotions into “bad”. They are JUST emotions God has given us similar to what He likely has for us. Deep thoughts. ❤

Andrew, sweetie I am so sorry that you are having to experience this. Please know that anything you are feeling is the new normal. My husband passed away 7 years ago, and most days there is something that will remind me of him. There is no time limit on grief. Take one day at a time. Prayers for you and your family.

So, So sorry for your loss. He was a great guy. Peace.

I am so sorry for your loss. I am thankful you had the special time together the week before. They will become cherished memories. I lost my Mom when I just turned 11. It was December 17. I remember being so sad inside looking out the window and seeing houses with Christmas lights except for ours. I felt like we were in a bubble and life was still going on for everyone else. I love Christmas lights but to this day 54 years later Christmas lights can be a trigger and tears usually stream down my face at least twice a season. Part of me still feels like that 11 year old child. The first year was hard but as the years went in, it got harder. All the special moments in my life that my Mom was not there for; my first bra, my period (hope not to much tmi), my first crush, Senior Prom, Graduation, Bridal Shower, Wedding Day, Baby Shower, my Children’s births and their milestones. My daughter recently married and not only was my Mother and Grandmother not there but my two best friends were not there too as they passed in 2020 and 2022. The grieving process for them has been totally different. I was friends with Maria for 47 years. Even though I moved to Nashville 12 years prior to her passing we spoke everyday! That has been the hardest and to this day two years later still is the hardest. The habit to call or text Maria has not passed. The thought for a split second that the text I just received might me from her still stings when reality hits you in the face. Gabrielle, was like a second Mom to me. I was blessed to be friends with her for 38 years. Our lives are so busy we don’t get the opportunity to really grieve. This year will be the year of firsts for you and your family. First birthday without your Dad, first Father’s Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and leading up to the first anniversary of his passing. In my 54 years of experience, I find the days leading up to the anniversary each year harder than the actual day itself. I can’t explain why. I truly believe your dream with your Dad sleeping in the guest room was a visit from your Dad. Be open to receiving signs. I am thankful you have each other and your families to help you on this journey. Hugs and prayers.

Thank you so much for sharing. I lost my dad when he was 64. Like you, my dad was awesome. He was the best dad ever. Things will get better-always remember memories are forever. I know he is in a better place and at peace.

I’m so sorry for your loss, sounds like your Dad was a great man and so what a blessing. That dream you had with him I believe was his spirit who came to visit with you . He will always be with you 🙏

I believe GOD gives us dreams. I started having vivid dreams after my dad died and still have dreams of my dad. I was amazed to hear you say you had that dream. Definitely a God dream.

Pausing and watching this on and off. I lost my Mom Oct 29th due to complications of MS. Its refreshing for people to talk about grief in such a candid way, thank you!

Thank you God, for the Blessings of Beautiful People, who share nuggets of Love & Joy, & offers me a Lesson of Life well Lived. At the End he said I have fought a Good Fight, I have Finished my Race, I have kept the Faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me a Crown of Righteousness. We serve a Good, Good, Father.

So sorry for your sudden loss! I lost my father suddenly at about the same age and it really rocks you as you likely never expected to lose your father so early in life.

What an amazing podcast. Thank you for sharing all you’ve been through with the loss of your dad! I am so glad he raised you in a Godly home so that you now love God and have a deep faith in Him. I pray you that you continue to raise your family the way you were raised…what a legacy to pass on to them. You are giving them a great foundation in this world and a promise of eternal life in Heaven. You and Shawn are great influencers for your generation! Will be praying your family as you walk through your grief! 🙏🙏❤️❤️