Recently, I had a close friend in the hospital in CCU. For a while, it was one step forward and two back. Finally, she’s been released from the hospital and improving. It was a scary time for all of us who care for her. I know that, selfishly, I’m not ready for her to leave. I value her insight and humor, and don’t want to lose that.

When we mourn, we grieve for ourselves, and for what is no longer present for us. It’s like when a friend moves across the country for great new opportunity, a new job, or to get married. We can be happy for them, but sad that they’re not going to be as present in our lives. Sure, we can email, visit, or have phone conversations, but still, the relationship has completely changed.

It was brought home to me, again, to spend time with loved ones, enjoy them, and make sure you let them know what they mean to you. For once they’re gone, either across the country or on the final grand adventure, your opportunity is gone, too.