I don't even want to consider the sadness that tragic deaths bring to lives--I can't even imagine how an abrupt loss shakes your life in devastating ways. My heart goes out to all those who have experienced such tragic losses.
Lately, however, I have been experiencing the sadness of a long, slow death--the very slow slipping away that happens to some as they age. I have tried many strategies to make this painful demise easier to watch and respond to, but no matter what strategies I employ, the bottom line is that this slow demise is very, very sad and disconcerting.
I asked an expert about this sadness, and his response was that the simple acknowledgement of the sadness is an important step.
So as I continue this experience, how will I react and what will I do?
Presence
Being there to do what I can on a regular basis is important to me. I have been apart of so many chapters in my loved ones' ife and though sad, I don't want to miss this chapter. I want to do what I can to provide comfort, cheer, help and companionship during this final chapter.
Cheer
To be angry or sad will not change matters in this situation, but to be cheerful and happy might bring more comfort so I'll coach myself to be positive, loving and cheerful.
Meaning
Finding meaning in any endeavor brings purpose and investment. What is the meaning in final chapters of life? One lesson I can cull is the lesson of what really matters in life--the final chapter demonstrates how insignificant so many items and attitudes are while emphasizing the value of love, relationships and care.
Perspective
We will all experience many chapters in life and it is important to give ourselves time to "enjoy the stage we're in" as my mother always said. So while we care for others in the stages that they're in, we cannot dismiss our own stage of life and the promise that brings to our life.
Onward.