“When you arise in the morning, think of what a precious privilege it is to be alive – to breathe, to think, to enjoy, to love.” ~ Marcus Aurelius
I received some unexpected news at the end of last week. My ex-husband suddenly passed away. He was only 60 years old. A life cut short too soon. His wife felt I had a right to know so she asked his sister to contact me. What a very kind and gracious gesture on this woman’s part. I am grateful.
The news left me heavy-hearted. I shared over a decade with my ex-husband and can say there were many more happy times than there were unhappy times. It was a painful experience when we broke up and although it has been many years since we were together, instantly everything came flooding back, the good and the sad moments.
Going through divorce is not easy for anyone and you always know in the back of your mind they are out there. And, if a couple has children, there is a life long attachment divorce does not prepare you for. My heart goes out to people in those situations and the pain of watching their children get caught in the cross hairs of a relationship ended between parents. Death, however changes everything and puts life in perspective.
I am sad for both families with the grief they are experiencing over such a devastating loss.
However, it is a reminder of the preciousness of life.
Your life is a gift to cherish, celebrate and not take it for granted.
I wish for you and everyone you hold dear the best in life always.
Life happens, usually at the most unexpected times and there are endless instances we can’t control. I’m still wrapping my head around the news of my ex-husband’s passing. I choose to remember his best qualities and not focus on any hurt or anger caused along the way. Thankfully, I have made peace with our marriage ending and I was able to sort through the grief of what I had in mind for my life.
There’s more to all our stories. Every day we wake up is a chance to begin again. To right a wrong. To say “I love you”. To put a smile on your face. To lend a hand or give a hug. To contribute to society making the world a better place. To laugh. To cry happy tears more than sad tears. To breathe in the wonder of being alive.
May we never forget to see the beauty in every moment we are here. You matter and make a difference to those you love and every person you encounter. May we react to the bad things that happen to us by living and designing lives we love each and every day.
Your life is too precious not to be lived exactly as you want it.
Cherish today and every day to come and live a life worth remembering.
I was sorry to hear about John passing….as you remember I knew him from when I lived in Crompond……..
Yes I do, Marie. Such a small world and very sad his life has been cut short. My heart goes out to his family and friends.