Dear those of you who have lost someone special,
It’s hard, and although I hate to say it, the pain may never go away. But it will get easier, I promise you that.
Addiction and cancer are what took away two of the most important people in my life. Two years ago on April 3, I lost my father to the evil disease that is alcoholism. That bottle of toxic took my parent away from me during the time when I needed him the most. It shattered my heart, but I learned to piece it back together. Almost exactly two years later, April 1, 2019, my grandfather lost his battle with cancer, and my best friend was gone, just like that. Then I thought my heart was broken for good.
It has been a month and now I know that is not true. Fear that I may lose yet another family member has stirred inside me since April 1 and I cannot seem to get rid of it. I probably never will. I do know, however, that I am so loved. My heart has overflowed with gratefulness for the kindness and support of my family, friends and even acquaintances. This is what has healed my heart and what will continue to heal it until it is finally unbreakable.
I sometimes wake up in the morning and wonder why the world is so cruel. Why would they take away some of the only things I hold so dear to me? Then I remind myself that a lot of good things have happened to me as well. Good things will come with the bad, although it may not feel like it. Relationships you have will grow stronger, you will find yourself becoming less afraid of the things that hold you back, and you will continue to grow prouder and prouder of the person you have become. If this is what I experienced, I can only hope the same thing will happen to you.
I ask that you cherish the moments of happiness, hold close to you the times when you laugh and smile, and always remember that you are loved no matter what. Even when everything feels dark and hope is lost, know that you will always have at least one person that loves you, and she is me.
You are so strong.
Love,
Ellie