I’m writing this from California because I’ve found myself having to explain my recent excursions to people I’m meeting (which I don’t mind doing) and so I thought I might share what I learned from my father’s death with my readers. I thought that it might explain some of the changes around here.
What I Learned from My Father’s Death
I’ve blogged about the loss of my father many times on here, beginning with that very hard to write my dad passed away post in December of 2012. All I can really remember from that time period is how sad and lonely I felt. Losing my father has been one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to deal with. His death still hits me at random moments and makes me want to start crying again. However, now that I’m a year and half out from it, I’m seeing that I did learn a few things from my father’s passing.
What I Learned from My Father’s Death
- Treasure time with loved ones. My mom and I haven’t always gotten along. In fact, my dad was concerned about us getting along after his passing. However, losing my father has managed to bring us new found peace. We realize that we need each other to survive now and we don’t waste time arguing like we did before. If one of us gets upset, we quickly find a way to get over it and move on. Life is too short to spend time being upset with a person you love.
- See and experience all that you can. My dad was legally blind and had other health issues that prevented him from traveling later in life. However, he didn’t travel very far as a young man either. I don’t know that he meant to teach me this lesson or not, but I feel strongly about traveling now. We don’t know what the future holds for any of us. So, I’m not going to waste my good health by sitting at home. I’d rather see all that I can, especially if I have any chance of going blind or not living past my fifties.
- People, not possessions matter. Trust me, I love stuff. Haha! However, I now see that our stuff just accumulates for our brief enjoyment and then it’s left behind for our loved ones to clean out as they see fit. However, the connections we make and impact we make on others sticks around. I remember all types of stories about my dad and no one can take those away from me.
- Life is short, be happy. This one can be applied to many aspects of life. For instance, enjoy that dessert or don’t take everything so personally.
- Do what you love. This one can explain the decrease in the frequency of my posts. Yes, it has hit my stats hard (real hard). However, I now try to spend my time doing things I truly enjoy and if that means not posting but a few times a week, then fine. If that means I write only 2 posts a week and both are personal posts, then that is fine as well. This isn’t to say that I don’t like blogging. One doesn’t do it for 5+ years and not get something from it. It just means that if you don’t see me around for a few (several) days, then I’m out living life instead of writing about it.
Like I said, I’m only just now realizing what I learned from my father’s death and his life. So, don’t be surprised if you read more posts like this in the future.
Helen G. says
My father passed away in 2002, and there isn’t a day that goes by that I don’t think of him. There are constant reminders of his influence in my life and I am forever grateful for a father who was present, sacrificed time, resources and energy to raise a family and leave a legacy of faith, love, and purpose. I wish he could’ve seen me graduate, get married, and meet my 3 children. He would’ve been the best grandpa to my kids! But one thing that I learned from his death is that life IS short. And the date of his death is just a day on the calendar… he will be forever remembered, no matter what day the calendar tells me it is. So… I live everyday, with the hope that he’s in a better place… and that I’m who I am because of his influence and prayers. Thanks for this post.
Maryann D. says
This is all wonderful advice for all of us. I do think after we have a loss of a loving family member we do learn things about life. We should all follow your advice each day. Thanks!
Sue Hull says
Its hard losing a family member or friend. Im so sorry for your loss. Since I hurt my back 15 yrs ago I havent been able to go do things I enjoy. Im a 2 yr cancer survivor so Im so blessed and thankful Im here. Hard things in life make us stronger and God always had a lesson in everything that happens. Getting cancer wasnt fun but it brought me and my sister closer. Something good always comes out of something bad. You and your mom getting closer is good,even tho you lost your dad.
I will keep you and your family in my prayers 🙂 Live life to the fullest b/c as you said life is to short 🙂
Tami Valentine says
Lindsay,
Your post brought tears to my eyes! What you said makes perfect sense. I come from a large family….we often spend time fighting about stupid little things! My father is 81 and my mother is 69….they are getting up there and I don’t know what I’d do without them, but through your blog above, I know what I WILL be doing.
Your advice will go a long way. I’m so sorry for your loss…it sounds like you’re on the right road. Thanks!!!