February 27, 2010 my life changed. I lost my dad to his battle with cancer, and he was only 52.
Today is ten years since he died, and I have to say, it is a very tough day. I didn't expect it to be so difficult, but I am struggling today. Grief can consume, and it is a sneaky thing too, as you don't realize it's going to get you until it does. I am constantly on the verge of tears, my every thought is consumed with memories of him - both good and sad ones. How is it that TEN years has gone by so quickly?
I was having a conversation with one of my Google Innovator mentees today, and he was saying how his life was so busy this past month and his Innovator project has somehow paused for a few weeks. He was still motivated and enthusiastic about it, and best of all - he didn't feel any guilt about having hit the pause button. My mentee's project is focussed around teacher self-care and wellness, and he recognized that if he tried to fit in everything this last month, he would burn out, so he took a moment (or a few) for himself and removed something from his plate. He is now able to reflect and see it was such a good decision for himself.
Today I was feeling guilty about not getting much accomplished and perhaps wallowing in my grief, but after reflecting I realize that maybe I just needed to take a moment. I spent that time remembering a man who shaped me and helped me become the woman I am today. Yes, it has been a very emotional and mentally tough day, but I needed to give myself this day so that I can continue on tomorrow.
My daughter Ava and my dad, summer 2009. |
I was having a conversation with one of my Google Innovator mentees today, and he was saying how his life was so busy this past month and his Innovator project has somehow paused for a few weeks. He was still motivated and enthusiastic about it, and best of all - he didn't feel any guilt about having hit the pause button. My mentee's project is focussed around teacher self-care and wellness, and he recognized that if he tried to fit in everything this last month, he would burn out, so he took a moment (or a few) for himself and removed something from his plate. He is now able to reflect and see it was such a good decision for himself.
Today I was feeling guilty about not getting much accomplished and perhaps wallowing in my grief, but after reflecting I realize that maybe I just needed to take a moment. I spent that time remembering a man who shaped me and helped me become the woman I am today. Yes, it has been a very emotional and mentally tough day, but I needed to give myself this day so that I can continue on tomorrow.
#BeWellEDU
Sending you a big hug! There are no rules to grief, so let yourself feel however you need to. The 10 year mark was a hard one for me too, as was surpassing how long he had been alive (he died when he was 34, I was 10 when he passed and just turned 34 this year). You're not alone. Take care of yourself. Reach out if you need anything.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Jenna! I appreciate the words and thoughts!
Delete