At my aunt's wake and funeral, I had the luxury of sitting back and thinking about life altogether. I thought about my aunt's good life, the good lives of her children, grandchildren and other loved ones, and the good life I've had as well as the good lives of my family members. All in all we've been fortunate.
As I thought about life altogether, I thought about the good times and not so good times, and today I'm focusing on what life experiences truly impacted me in positive ways over time.
As I wrote about my aunt, I realized that it was her welcoming home, the good times we shared, and the way she loved and cared for her family that were her greatest gifts to me. When I think about my own parents, it's clear to see that they too provided a loving home, support for my dreams, comfort and wisdom during tough times, and lots of great family adventures over the years. In general, those I love most in life have always welcomed me, supported me, inspired me and sometimes appropriately challenged me. I am grateful for this.
As I move ahead in life, I want to do the same for my loved ones too. I want my home to be a welcoming place. And, I want to be there to support and help when needed too. I love sharing wonderful adventures, good times and celebrations as well.
How will I make that happen?
Like Aunt Betty and my mom, it's good to make our home a place our loved ones like to be. That takes some time and effort, and it is time and effort well spent.
I also love to plan adventures and good times with my loved ones--we'll keep that regular effort alive, and I want to be more cognizant of the good I can do when people need extra support, care and/or inspiration. Just yesterday, loved ones left me a beautiful card and plant to acknowledge my aunt's passing and a few other challenges in my midst. That was such a warm and energizing show of support. One I greatly appreciated.
As I always say, there are limitless ways to do the good possible for ourselves and others, and the more we can steer our lives in that direction, the better for all. Onward.