Finding Purpose After Tragedy: A Mother’s Journey Through Grief

September 3, 2025

Written By

Beth
In this heartfelt episode of Lessons from Living, Beth speaks with Maureen Yarborough, a mother who has walked through unimaginable tragedy—the loss of a grandchild, and two of her three children, one in a devastating car accident and another to suicide just three years later. Maureen opens up about her grief journey, the painful whys, and the everyday struggle of living with such deep loss. Yet at the heart of her story is resilience, grounded in God’s love and provision. She shares how she continues to move forward, finding meaning and hope in the belief that life goes on, even in the face of heartbreak. This conversation offers encouragement for anyone coping with loss—whether you’ve faced the death of a loved one, battled through tragedy, or are seeking perspective for your own struggles. Maureen’s example reminds us that while grief never fully leaves us, God never does either, and life still holds beauty, purpose, and hope.

 

Episode Outline

  • 00:08 – 05:25 — A Journey Through Loss
    Maureen recounts the heartbreaking series of losses her family endured, beginning with her granddaughter, then her son Andy in a car accident, and later her son Tommy to suicide.
  • 08:23 – 21:32 — Community, Faith, and Wrestling with Why
    She reflects on the impact of grief on friends, faith leaders, and her wider circle, and speaks candidly about the stigma of suicide and her own search for meaning.
  • 22:36 – 35:15 — Daily Practices and Redefining Purpose
    Maureen shares how prayer, Scripture, and intentional reflection became her foundation, reshaping her sense of purpose and helping her focus on lifting others.
  • 41:22 – 55:20 — Finding Grace in Relationships
    She describes how grief shifted her perspective on fear, marriage, work, and friendships, emphasizing compassion, authenticity, and receiving help when needed.
  • 1:05:00 – 1:10:12 — Lessons in Hope
    Maureen concludes with the life lessons that guide her forward: faith, resilience, and the reminder that life is more than this life—it’s about eternity and living with purpose today.

 

Best Quotes from the Podcast

“You’re not going to get over it, you’re not even going to get through it, but you’re going to learn how to carry it.” — Maureen Yarborough

 

“Hang on. What feels too heavy may be the very thing God will use to make you a beacon for someone else.” — Maureen Yarborough

 

“Faith is the armor that lets me keep living with joy, strength, and courage, no matter what the day holds.” — Maureen Yarborough

 

“This life is not about this life. This is about the next one.” — Maureen Yarborough

 

“We can be enough for each other in the little moments of the day. That is a successful life.” — Maureen Yarborough

 

Click play to listen to the full episode

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