Living away from family and friends can take a toll on your mental health. Most of the time, you end up scrolling through social media in hopes of feeling connected to them.
But it’s not the same.
During my grandmother’s 80th, I was tagged on video by a family member. I stared at that 10-second video of my grandmother for a good 10 minutes just wishing I was there to celebrate with her. Slowly studying her reaction and what she might’ve said about the gifts she had received. I wish I was there before the party to help plan, set up and enjoy some time with those I love.
But I wasn’t.
They say dealing with change gets better with time, and that time heals everything. So why am I still wishing I was there?
It’ll be a year since my uncle’s passing this November, and somehow, I can only think about how I won’t be there for my aunt or my cousins.
I’ve heard from others how visiting family in Rhode Island hasn’t been the same, and I can imagine. There’s still pain from his passing, even I feel it and I’m here in South Florida.
I can still remember the moments we all shared when my aunt and uncle purchased their home. How much they loved to entertain by the pool every summer. My random trips to Dollar Tree with my cousins. Those were the moments we bonded the most. Buying awesome, inexpensive items and stocking up on candy. I wish I could go back to those moments, even if it were for a day.
I had a dream a couple of months back. Soon after we had purchased our home, I had a dream about my aunt and uncle. He was granted one more day on earth and I made sure that he spent the most time with his wife. And right before he left, he made sure she took her pills before bed. It brought me to tears thinking about it when I woke up. Most importantly, knowing that my aunt wouldn’t be able to see him again, that’s what really hurt.
But we continue to live on — with the memories of better days — we treasure the moments that have come and gone.
28 responses to “When Time Doesn’t Heal”
I lost my mom in February and so far, time has done absolutely nothing. Maybe it’s too soon, but it hurts as much today as it did that day 🙁
Isn’t it funny how time actually makes you miss them even more? I can still remember my last conversation with my uncle. I wish I told him more.
I miss my passed family members so much, some days I wake up and think oh I must tell them and then remember…
Sometimes time heals, but in most cases it doesn’t. My friend recently moved & we miss each other dearly. She’ll connect so much to this post!
I imagine this would be tough. I think time can dull pain, but never take it completely away.
I think time eventually heals. It is different for everyone. To some it is going to quicker than for others. but the loss of a loved one is always hard
I hear ya! Thanks for your feedback.
I feel for you! I know what it’s like to be living far from family as well. It’s amazing that sometimes even when living close by it can still feel like you’re far apart.
I know what you mean. There were times when family felt distant, yet were only a couple of miles away.
Sorry for your loss Fatima. Everyone says time heals but I don’t know about that. I’ve just started realizing how important family is and we will be moving back to Az in June. I’m looking forward to spending more time with my mom.
Wow, I didn’t even know. Honestly, I think that’s a great decision. You just never know how much time you have left with someone. Cherish every moment! Good luck on the move next year.
I live in the Uk but all my family is back in Sydney Australia and it is HARD to be away from family when any sort of event occurs, positive or negative. We just need to prioritise speaking to and visiting them when we can x
I know the feeling. And yes, visiting them as often as possible helps fill the void.
You always hear the saying that time heals. I do not think that is true for everyone. For me I find I just get used to the pain and learn how to deal with it.
Sometimes that’s the best way to go about it. Thanks for taking the time out to read this personal piece.
Oh hun I am sorry to hear about your uncles passing, I am sure he is proud of the wonderful caring woman that you are.It can be hard to be away from family I agree x