And Then They Were Gone ...

"Be the things you loved most

about the people who are gone."

  Unknown

Two dear friends of mine have recently transitioned.  One I knew forever while the other only a few years.  I am discovering the length of relationship is not as important as the gift they left behind.   Having set examples, I try to be more like them which helps to reduce the pain of their absence.

Louise was constant action, quietly helping others without any recognition.  In conversation she would catch the sound of need and within a day or so, the need had been addressed.  The beautiful part was she never told anyone else what she was doing or how she had helped.  Often, the benefactors did not know who had met the need.  John, on the other hand, had the bluest of eyes and listened with compassion.  He was animated in his responses and shared deep thoughts himself.  As the conversation unfolded, his eyes never strayed from the face.  He had the ability to make others feel vitally important.   He offered recognition, respect, and compassion.

My sense of loss for these two is purely selfish.  Both of them are in better places minus the pain they had been suffering.  When the energy of loss kicks in, I try to immediately take action in their honor.  By duplicating what they so effortlessly gave, I can still feel connected to them and keep their gifts alive.  My dear friends are gone, but their spirits linger.