I don’t understand how people can get so anti-something. Mind your own business, take care of your affairs, and don’t worry about other people so much.
— Betty White
I’ve been taking deep stock of my life, having lost both parents now (father died over 20 years ago, and mother died 2 1/2 years ago). Apparently I’m going through “complicated grieving.” This is when you lose a parent you weren’t particularly close to and who was probably either abusive and/or neglectful. So, you’re not sad and missing them as much as you’re secretly relieved you no longer have to suffer the confusion of the relationship. But you’re also left so sit with the rubble, which is very much an exhaustive, emotional maze, until you can make sense of it. Anyhow, all of this processing (with professional help) has me re-thinking my priorities. I’ve seen others go through seismic shifts after the death of a parent, and I think it’s pretty normal. I’m realizing that I need to give myself credit for what I have been able to accomplish, despite a less than supportive upbringing. I also want to embrace and celebrate the wonderful people in my life. And most importantly, I want to focus on things that bring me joy and peace… more than I want to measure myself against others, or chase the almighty dollar and rungs on the career ladder. Just sayin’ ;) Hugs and good luck. XO
Blessings,
Chatgirl
