“Weeping may last for the night, but a shout of joy comes in the morning” (Psalm 30:5, NASB).

Someone once said, “Grief never ends…but it changes. It is a passage, not a place to stay. Grief is not a sign of weakness, nor a lack of faith…It is the price of love.”

If you have ever lost someone you love, you know how deep the wound cuts. In Tears to Joy, author Mike Tucker shares from his heart his struggles through the heartache of grief after the death of his wife of more than 40 years, Gayle Anne Whitacre Tucker. Her death affected every corner of his life, both personal and professional. He didn’t only lose a wife but a ministry partner as well.

For years as a pastor, chaplain, and counselor, Mike taught grief recovery classes. While he had experienced losses in his life, he had never known the life-altering devastation that can only be realised through the loss of a spouse or child. His life was in shambles, and he found himself putting to the test everything he had taught about grief recovery through the decades.

In sharing his story, Mike also shares research and material that he found helpful and reliable in the process of recovery. While Mike’s experience may differ widely from yours—everyone’s grief journey is different—there are inevitable similarities. And it is in the areas of similarity that you will find the greatest help in dealing with your loss. It is the author’s hope that in the midst of sorrow, Tears to Joy will bring you courage as you navigate through life’s most difficult journey.