The older I get, the more I learn about dealing with loss. Loss can be defined in so many ways. The loss of a loved one or a friend or mentor. The loss of a relationship with a significant other or close friend. The loss of the person you were 5, 10, 15 years ago. The loss of the drive to do the right thing or right wrongs in your life or others. I have dealt with some great losses in the last 3 years. The passing of seven close friends and family members. Each one a bit different, but all just as important as the other. I think of all of those situations and remember how each one of those losses really changed my thoughts on life and relationships. Those thoughts that hit you the moment you've learned of a loved one passing. Like all the memories you shared with them come splashing into your face with such a vibrant and warm wave. I like to think about that way because it leaves content in knowing of all the time they had on Earth, I was able to spend some time with them. I definitely have learned to cherish more relationships the last few years. It's not always a matter of how much time you spend with someone, but rather your conveyance of love and support that they know they can rely on. Those difficult moments in life when you know that a person is truly open to helping and caring for you. None of us is perfect, but I've definitely learned a lot more about unconditional love in regards to family and relationships. That moment in your mind when you think of a person and realize that your life just would not be complete without. I try and take more time telling people that I am really happy they are doing well, making their lives great, creating families, growing their list of friends, or just trying to get by with a little hard work and desire and love in their hearts. Sometimes we ourselves yearn to be a person we were some time ago. Sometimes we're just trying to be a better version of the person we were yesterday. In any case, hold on to life and those relationships you cherish. A memory is still a memory regardless if it's 15 minutes or 15 days long. I am so thankful for those I have passed through life with, but I am also excited about those I will go through the future with. Whoever it is you may have on your mind, a parent, a friend, a wife, a husband, a sibling, or someone that impacted your life in a positive way...reach out to them. Say I love you. In the old days, a man appeared weak for saying that to the people he cared for. I try and say it as often as I can these days as you really never truly know if you will see that person again and it's just a great feeling for them to know they are loved by someone.
Each friend represents a world in us, a world possibly not born until they arrive, and it is only by this meeting that new world is born. - Anais Nin
