When my mom died, I remember reading somewhere that when a loved one dies, your relationship with them doesn't end, it just changes. It goes on, but in a different form. That gave me a lot of comfort at the time and I can tell you that eighteen years later, it's true. I still "talk" to my mom most days, still laugh with her about things only she would find funny, still rely on her advice. She's been gone a long time now, but she's truly ever-present. I know your dad will be that way as well.
Grief is terrible, losing a parent or parental figure can be world shifting. Thanks for sharing the small glimmers of light in your life for now. Those glimmers will grow and expand like light burning through film, and then the grief will settle at the edges of your peripheral vision. It will still be there, but it will change and develop and contextualize everything that's important.
At least that's how I've experienced it.
Pete seems like an amazing person, I'm so happy you got to have him and that you have your family and delicious food to get you through now. <3
I'm a reader of this newsletter and a big fan of This Time Tomorrow. Your book absolutely radiated love and possibility. Thank you for your words, and my condolences on your loss. Your father left an incredible legacy.
I have found what Laura said (second comment posted) exactly true, and I hope you will, too. The authors and readers at the Provincetown Book Festival thought of you many times last weekend with love and gentle compassion. I send you support, care, and encouragement--for when you want it.
When my mom died, I remember reading somewhere that when a loved one dies, your relationship with them doesn't end, it just changes. It goes on, but in a different form. That gave me a lot of comfort at the time and I can tell you that eighteen years later, it's true. I still "talk" to my mom most days, still laugh with her about things only she would find funny, still rely on her advice. She's been gone a long time now, but she's truly ever-present. I know your dad will be that way as well.
Grief is terrible, losing a parent or parental figure can be world shifting. Thanks for sharing the small glimmers of light in your life for now. Those glimmers will grow and expand like light burning through film, and then the grief will settle at the edges of your peripheral vision. It will still be there, but it will change and develop and contextualize everything that's important.
At least that's how I've experienced it.
Pete seems like an amazing person, I'm so happy you got to have him and that you have your family and delicious food to get you through now. <3
I'm a reader of this newsletter and a big fan of This Time Tomorrow. Your book absolutely radiated love and possibility. Thank you for your words, and my condolences on your loss. Your father left an incredible legacy.
Thinking and appreciating you from almost 3,000 miles away on the other coast. And cats...the importance of scritchable belly's.... Healing
I have found what Laura said (second comment posted) exactly true, and I hope you will, too. The authors and readers at the Provincetown Book Festival thought of you many times last weekend with love and gentle compassion. I send you support, care, and encouragement--for when you want it.
Sending you love and thank you for sharing your joys.
That Hetty recipe. Oh yes. Sending so much love. These are difficult days but then one day it's a joyful day when memories are full of grace.
Yes yes yes, to so much of this. Ross Gay is a treasure and I especially love his Book of Delights on audiobook because his voice is so great.
I'm glad you're able to make a list like this. Thinking of you!
So much love to you Emma.
💗