I've been to a lot of wakes and funerals. I've known a lot of people who have died. Yet, I've rarely lost someone who was very close to me. I've been fortunate in that way.
Today as I think about the outpouring of love and affection throughout my mom's illness and death, I am greatly humbled and thankful. Truly we need one another at times like these, and the presence of others alone bring great comfort.
The house would be awfully lonely without family and friends right now, but for every family member, there's been an outpouring of love and affection which has helped us get motivated to complete the wake, funeral, and memorial luncheon planning.
Sometimes when those we know pass, we're at a loss about what to say or do, but now, having experienced this outpouring, I've learned that any positive act or words serve to comfort those who grieve. We need each other at times like these.
Today as I greet those who show up for my mom and reply to those who have sent beautiful messages, flowers, foods, and other support, I will be grateful as well as knowing that they too have experienced or are currently experiencing similar struggles and loss. I want to be there for them too because we need each other at times like these.
A world where we work to be there for one another in the most positive and helpful ways is a good world. I don't want to forget that. Onward.