Christine Thiele

Christine Thiele is a free lance writer, middle school teacher, and a former professional and volunteer youth minister. She has written for The Journal of Student Ministries, YouthWorker Journal, Grief Digest, OpentoHope.com, is a contributing author in several Open to Hope books and The Widow's Handbook (to be released in 2014 by Kent State University Press). Along with her writing, Christine is raising her two lovely and energetic sons. Since her husband's death in 2005 from pancreas cancer, her writing has been focused on grief and healing issues.

Articles:

Open to hope

Each Holiday Brings New Elements of Grief … and Hope

As the holidays approach, I can feel the tension in my neck begin to build. I begin to anticipate how this year will look. What will we do? Who will […]

Open to hope

Husband’s Death, Father’s Death

Five years ago, my kids’ dad died from pancreas cancer. At the time, I did not know what it was like to lose a parent. Both my parents were still […]

Open to hope

Movie Triggers a Feeling of Missing the Old Life

Last weekend, we had a free movie weekend from some of the pay movie networks. I love this! I can watch all the movies I want and since I can’t […]

Open to hope

Completeness Shattered by Complete Separation

Completeness. This is what I miss today. The feeling that you have all that you need and that all is well and safe. There were many moments that I remember […]

Open to hope

Widow: ‘I Miss My Reflection in His Eyes’

Today I was driving, and the thought of someone I used to work with came to my mind. I couldn’t think of his name. Who was that kid with glasses? […]

Open to hope

Loss of Husband Makes Life Doubly Hard

When you’re a couple in a family, there are things that are no brainers. Who will run to the grocery store, who will pick up the kids, who will help […]

Open to hope

When We Remember Our Loved One, We Become Stronger

Sometimes remembering comes at a cost. Since my husband died, remembering is the hardest thing for me. Most days, I can go about my business and not think that this […]

Open to hope

Widow’s Separation From Husband is ‘Temporary’

This life is so temporary. We don’t seem to get that most times. Over the last months, it has become so clear to me that we are not meant for […]

Open to Hope is an online community offering inspirational stories of loss, hope and recovery. We believe hope is the bridge between loss and recovery.