“The best way to honor the dead is to keep on living”
I forgot where I got this – it’s probably some video game or TV show – but I am reminded of this every February since my mother died 10 years ago. This year is no different.
Life, of course, will never be the same especially after your loved ones, especially those close to you, die. Some of those left behind get over it pretty quick; they are able to resume their lives as soon as possible almost as if nothing happened. On the other hand, there are those who take longer to stop mourning. Some of them carry a burden for several years, continue to wallow in the what-ifs and regrets of not having been able to do or say things with or to the departed.
Some of us withdraw from society to cope. Others find talking to those they can trust therapeutic. One must find the method that one will be comfortable with.
Realization over the years: cherish those dearest to you as much as possible while they’re still alive. One day, they can be taken from you in the blink of an eye.
We the living don’t need to forget the dead; but at the same time, we eventually have to move past the “everything reminds me of the departed” stage. It’s not easy, but it can’t go on forever. I’m sure the dead would frown if your life stopped just because they’re not there anymore.
The Chronicles of Amir Al Bahr 