Honouring Loss
I had an empty nest piece all set to post today but I’ve changed my plan.
On Sunday, a life changed abruptly.
Today, my heart is with one of my best friends whose partner passed away suddenly on the weekend. Out of respect for her and for the life of her partner, I’d like to honour her loss.
My dear friend is dealing with too many unknowns to mention. I don’t know how life will look for her going forward.
I just know that, for me, when someone passes the world stops for a while. I reflect on how I spend my time and where I place my energy. And I think about whether what I’m doing in life is worthwhile.
- Is my presence here making a difference?
- Is what I’m doing in each moment contributing to my wholeness and the wholeness of others?
The best way to answer those questions right now is by supporting my girl through her pain and challenges. I’ll do that to the best of my ability.
In honour of a life lost and in support of my loving friend, let’s all take a moment to count our blessings today.
Spend a few extra moments while tucking your child in tonight.
Be sure to tell someone you love him deeply.
Give out a few extra kisses or hugs whether needed or not.
See if you can find a rainbow where there wasn’t one before.
Kathi
As a mother of two grown children, I have transitioned through the empty nest and am embracing this amazing and yet, sometimes confusing stage of life. My desire is to write my way through whatever comes my way and should my thoughts resonate, I'd love to hear from you.
14 Comments
Saying Kaddish
Thank you, Kathi. This is beautiful. I share your thoughts and I treasure our friendship.
My Life After Kids (Kathi Ostrom)
Thanks, Sarah. I treasure our friendship, too! xoxo
janinekv
Kathi – Thank you for your loving support.
My Life After Kids (Kathi Ostrom)
You’re in my thoughts, daily. Love to you!
Karla Mah
I love you dearly. xo
My Life After Kids (Kathi Ostrom)
Right back at you, Karla!
Dottie
A lovely tribute and just the right words for support. You have reminded me that I need to write about this, too, since it is continually on my mind and needs to come out. You are a wonderful friend to all of us.
My Life After Kids (Kathi Ostrom)
I hope you are writing, Dottie. You have a way with your words, like no other. xo
Della
Beautiful and heartfelt. I’m sorry for your loss.
My Life After Kids (Kathi Ostrom)
Thank you, Della. xo
janstring
“the world stops for a while” I can remember that thought and feeling when my mum died and I looked out of the window and watched the world walk by-when my world had stopped. My heart goes out to your friend Kath. I’m sorry for her loss. Sometimes this seems such a useless thing to stay but it is an honest thing to say. Take care.
My Life After Kids (Kathi Ostrom)
Jan – it’s really nice to hear from you. Thank you for your kind words.
Heather
I didn’t have time to read this until today, and it is odd, but was the perfect time to do so. My dear friend passed away yesterday morning, and you put into words exactly what I have been thinking and feeling. Thank you for that, Kathi. It’s good to know we aren’t alone.
My Life After Kids (Kathi Ostrom)
I’m sorry to hear of your loss, Heather. I would call the timing of your reading my post “a meaningful coincidence.” I’m glad it came to you at a time when it could help.