Losing someone you love is tough, and when it happens unexpectedly, it hurts even more.
Over the years, I have met people who have inspired me to live. From family to friends and even those who I’ve crossed paths, each have left an imprint in my life.
Getting The News
When I received the news that my uncle had been diagnosed with lung cancer, I thought about how much it would dampen his spirits.
As a happy-go-lucky guy, I’ve watched my uncle receive bad news after bad news. First, he went through surgery for a brain aneurysm. Then, he found out he had diabetes. All this followed by serious back pain which led to spinal surgery. Now, he’s going through chemo in hopes of getting rid of the cancer in his lungs.
But my uncle remains somewhat the happy-go-lucky guy I know. He’s optimistic, and he should be because everyone is rooting for him. His wife continues to be at his side every step of the way. And for that I am grateful.
Losing A Family Member
Sometimes it doesn’t matter how young or old you are. When it’s your time to go, you just do. And that’s what recently happened to one of Jeff’s cousins.
At 21, life is just too precious to be taken away. But that’s what happened. A good person tragically lost their life.
His family and friends are still in shock, and they have every right to be. You can read about his unexpected death here.
Lessons On Living
Life has a funny way of showing you all the beauty in it. Even when tragedies strike, there are a million and one reasons to keep smiling and always appreciate everything your life has to offer.
With every bad news that comes my way, I’ve learned to see the good in it. Lessons I’ve come to learn are the following:
You are more than your experience.
Even when it feels as though the world is crumbling at your feet, there are so many things to look forward to.
Appreciate the memories.
Whether you’re dealing with a loss or caring for someone who is sick, all you really have to get you through the pain are the wonderful memories you have created together.
Every moment counts.
Regardless of the pain we feel, sometimes it’s easy to forget that we continue to live on. What you do after tragedy strikes is important to your well being. Allow yourself to go through the emotions. You’ll feel better when you do.
Be available.
Sometimes we close ourselves out from the world because we’re hurting. If you open up to those you love, then you’ll notice you’re not the only one going through pain. And if you get the chance to be someone’s ear, just listen. Let them vent to you about their emotions. You’ll be doing them a huge favor.
How do you deal with bad news?
3 responses to “What Death And Sickness Has Taught Me About Living”
It's never easy is it? The biggest loss I have ever suffered has been that of my grandfather…very sudden and unexpected due to an injury. I have also suffered the loss of furbabies throughout the years and those are difficult for me as well. I've never experienced a loved one or friend suffering from cancer or any other debilitating illness, but I don't even want to begin to imagine.
Thanks for taking the time out to read my post, Lucy.
It's heartbreaking when you lose those you love. You'd think that with time it just becomes normal, but it doesn't.
Furbabies are so special. I've read somewhere that they spend such a short time with us because they give their all during the time they have on earth. Sometimes I wish I was like our pup. He's always so happy and excited for whatever comes his way. He isn't afraid of anyhting, he just takes life as it comes.
This was beautiful – you are completely right about all the lessons we can learn from experiencing such a tragedy. I haven't lost anyone close to me since I lost my grandpa as a little girl. It still hurts to this day though, and I think what really helped my family heal was the support we showed one another.