A Bittersweet Goodbye

This past week, I lost my father. In a way, it was not a surprise, as he had been declining with dementia for years, but that still did not prepare me for the final moments. I know this is something that we all go through. Perhaps it is a parent, or a spouse, or a sibling, or a dear friend— it is never easy and it is a gap that may never fully close.

Like my ever optimistic self, I turn my thoughts to the positive. He is no longer suffering. He never forgot me, and was always so happy to see me. He knew I put so much effort into his care and he was ever grateful. Despite this, he drove me crazy with stress at times and I can honestly say I had moments where I resented him for not thinking or planning better. Still, I will miss him and I no longer worry endlessly whether he is okay. I know he is.

It is too early for me to say I have learned so much from this experience. Perhaps others reading this blog may have some advice to give in their comments. What I can say is that I do believe it is important to give yourself time to grieve in whatever manner feels right to you. Don’t hold expectations over yourself that require you to snap back instantly-/that is our world that moves so quickly but we don’t always have to follow that pace.

My you be inspired to write this week— happy or otherwise.