For each of us - - rich
or poor, young or old - - there are times in our lives when we must face
and deal with personal losses and the pain and sorrow they cause. Examples
that come easily to mind are the death of a parent, spouse, child, or other
close family member or friend. Many other events and transitions also bring
with them sadness and a need to grieve.
-
Being told you have a serious,
possibly terminal illness
-
Having to give up interests
and activities that have been a major part of your life
-
Seeing serious decline in mental
or physical health of someone you love
-
Retiring from a work career
or voluntary activity that has helped shape who you are and what you stand
for
-
Losing a significant part of
your independence and mobility; even giving up driving a car can be a significant
loss for many people
-
Moving out of your home
-
Saying goodbye to a favorite
pet
Losses such as these are simply
part of living. Like their counterparts among the joyful occasions in our
lifetime - - the birth of a child or grandchild, a celebration of marriage,
an enduring friendship - - they are part of what it means to share in the
human experience. And the emotions they create in us are part of living,
as well. |
