How to handle adversity when nothing goes your way. How to lift others up when it feels like the world is tearing you down. How to stay devoted to your passion when it’s a constant reminder of who or what you’ve lost. And how to be vulnerable when everyone expects you to be guarded.

Anderson experienced grief unlike any he’d faced before.

“It was a year full of tears,” said Anderson’s mom, Donna. “And prayer was our only hope.”

He coped with the loss of two of his best friends in his wife and father, leaning on family, friends, players and coaches as he navigated crippling heartache.

And through it all, Anderson stayed true to himself and his beliefs. He’s a man of deep-rooted Christian faith, and he’s not afraid to share that. That faith never wavered.

It intensified…

More about Living with Grief 

I keep my radar out at all times, even seven years later. Actually, people with long-term grief need to keep their guard up forever. Being in the company of negativity is unhealthy.

There are people who feed on emotional problems and turmoil. They seem to enjoy other people’s unhappiness and conflict, and often create or add to it. This could be a neighbor or someone you’ve known for years through a church or group you attend and otherwise enjoy. Listening to a constant barrage of “ain’t it awful” and criticism is a drag on your spirit.

Just be alert and protect yourself. Sometimes such people latch on to the bereaved, the divorced, or people with other life challenges. Just cut them off. It’s like mentally drawing down a shade or creating a mental barrier. Don’t talk or spend time with them. Find something else to do…

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