Loss, Aging Parents, Empty Nest and Menopause

I thought I said goodbye to my dad five years ago when he had the first stroke.  I was wrong.  I'm not ready.  I don't want to say a final goodbye.  I don't want my dad's light to turn off for good.  

Women have so much to deal with at this time of life. Think about it! Empty nest, aging parents.  You'd think children growing up and leaving would be enough to deal with, throw in having to watch parent's health go downhill.  No wonder women are so strong and enduring!  We deal with so much loss it can't help but grow character and stimulate huge strides in personal growth.

Loss is something we deal with throughout our lives. Loss of personal power if abused, loss of trust when lied to, loss of value as we let ourselves be absorbed by motherhood and loss of self as we become the nurturer and giver.  You'd think we'd had enough of loss!  

We all have our ways of coping.  Some seek psychotherapy, others a quiet corner.  I think I'll try both.  For now all I can do is sit beside dad, holding his hand, stroking his brow and remembering all the good times we were allowed to have together.  That's all I can do, really.  Fighting death isn't going to stop it.  Railing against God for allowing this to happen isn't going to turn the clock backwards.  But having a good, positive attitude and ensuring dad gets his favourite meals every day will help the ones left behind. It will reassure me that I did my part, that I contributed to a positive environment. That I helped dad get and be ready for the next step of his life! Then maybe I can feel more ready for my next step as well.

Next time: Kayaking the West Coast and getting hit over the head with the paddle of awareness!

How are You Coping with Loss? What kind of Loss are you Dealing With? Comment below, you never know who may hear and be inspired!

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