Sunday Morning Reflections - Just Go With the Flow

© dodoardo

​I’m having a hard time with a Sunday Morning Reflections post, not because of the loss of my Dad, but because I’m not sure what I want to write about. I’ve shared enough about who he was and our relationship.  While I always go off track on Sunday mornings, I still like to keep it a little personal.  
 
So, I’m hoping, at least for those of you who are younger, maybe I’ll share something that’s helpful. On the other hand, my buddy Scott Bourne loves to remind me that these days, EVERYBODY in the industry is younger – so I’ll let you decide.
 
The topic is simply dealing with loss. For me this week it’s “Pop”, but it can be anyone or anything important to you.  I think I’m doing great, but it’s only because of so many friends who have shared their thoughts along with family members and close friends who are here to lean on.
 
The seven stages of grief, which most of you have heard before are disbelief, denial, bargaining, guilt, anger, depression, and acceptance/hope. In the last few days I’ve covered all of them. In fact, every day has been a roller coaster with each of the seven stages separated by moments of bitter sweet joy as we’ve shared stories about the funny things that happened over the years with my Dad.
 
My point is, you have to go with the flow. It’s a life-experiencing riptide and while I’m not drowning in any one stage, I can’t get out of the emotional current. I just have to go with it.
 
I’ll leave you with one more thought – when dealing with loss don’t be afraid to reach out to those closest to you. They’re in your life because they’re important to you. They’re in your life, just like you’re in theirs – for support, help, encouragement and guidance.
 
It might seem trite, but the Beatles said it best, “I get by with a little help from my friends!” Well, actually it’s a LOT of help. Accept those moments when you need help, but also those when you want to be alone with your thoughts. Accept the roller coaster ride of grief. Hang onto those special memories like a life raft in bad storm at sea. Most important of all, appreciate your network and the love of friends, many of whom, in our Internet world, you might not even have met.
 
It’s Sunday and the perfect day for one of those eleven second hugs I always write about…only today I might go for twenty seconds! It’s also the perfect time to send out one gigantic “thank you” for your words of encouragement and support. Sure do appreciate you guys!
 
Make it a great day everybody and cherish those special people around you.