Over-Thinking a Tough Topic

by Skip Cohen

When I wrote my blog yesterday, I was very hesitant before hitting "post." Talking about how we react under the stress of a dying loved one isn't a standard topic. It doesn't matter that it's something we all have to deal with at one time or another; we just don't talk about it.  I was over-thinking the challenge of sharing a remarkable guest post. Even in the silent rules of social media, death, politics, and religion are all topics the experts suggest we stay clear of.  

​When I read Durgawati Dari's original piece, I immediately wanted to share it. Although I know there are hundreds of books and articles on dealing with the death of a loved one, it's just not something I ever thought about, and life doesn't come with an instruction manual.

I made the decision to share the guest post after a long time of thinking about the consequences. Looking back now, I wasted time and energy worrying about what readers might say instead of just trusting my gut and instinct.

Today's post is short, and it's simply a thank you for so many positive comments via email, DMs, and even a couple of phone calls. Death isn't something normally on my mind, but with aging comes the loss of parents, other family members, and friends. In the last few weeks, I've lost several good friends. While I wasn't by their side at the moment they passed, I found Durgawati's post helpful in how I've been thinking about their recent deaths. Here's the link if you missed it.

​One of my favorite quotes is by Alfred Lord Tennyson, "I am a part of all that I have met."  It highlights the fact that each loved one we lose is already a part of us. Take a second and think about somebody you've lost close to you. Yes, they're gone physically, but their influence on your life is ALWAYS there. Think of who you are today and have some fun chasing down the roots for things you love to do, expressions you regularly use, or, if you're a foodie, who introduced you to your favorites.

Those we love don't go away, they walk beside us every day...
unseen, unheard, but always near, still loved, still missed, and very dear.
Saint Diamonds