Life Writings | Grief and Compassion

 Grief.

When I received the phone call in the early morning hours two weeks ago from my aunt from the emergency room, I was surprised to say the least.  My uncle did have some health issues that he has battled over the years but his unexpected passing while walking up the stairs for bed...that, was shocking. Shocking because of the sudden loss to the family, and shocking because I know what that loss is going to do to my 82 year old aunt.

The indecisive weeks that followed have been filled with emotional highs and lows for everyone, and after his services yesterday, we must still take time to be sure she is cared for as she finds her footing for this next phase of her life alone.  

This is the first time in her life she has ever been alone...from growing up in her family house and staying there throughout her marriage, there has always been someone around.  The silence now...is deafening to her.

My hubby and I are on the phone, and in the house with her, while my brother, and her neighbors help keeping her fed and comforted.

When I went to my wellness checkup in between this, my blood pressure was notably up and the doctor asked what was going on.  After I told him he remarked that he told me only a few months ago to get less stress...not add more.

Life doesn't seem to work that way, and Grief?  Grief has no boundaries. Or Compassion.