I talk about loss and grief, because it’s part of life, it’s what we will all have to face. It's also what I'm dealing with currently. Once the curtain closes whatever has passed, is what is left.

Time to reflect

When anyone passes away, it gives those they leave behind, time to reflect. It’s a time to get your thoughts together, to think about things, to work things out. Not all relationships need that much time, often because they are more straight forward than others.

When it comes to a loved-one's passing, it's a difficult concept, both for the person transitioning and those they leave behind. For those waiting in the wings to transition, it’s an opportunity to resolve any issues and to make their own passing easier. The things they said and left unsaid, will always remain said and unsaid, unless they clear the decks.

An opportunity to unburden

Before anyone transitions, it’s their time to reflect, an opportunity to unburden, to feel lighter. We live more than we think about how we live. But there’s no point in living life, and then realising towards the end, there were things you should have said.

Living your life

So, want to make a difference while you can, and learn to make a life one that you have no regrets for. However you live your life, remember to check back periodically and remember relationships are a two-way street. They need to be nurtured and like a fine wine, can get better with time. All relationships take time to build up, to nurture. They need to be looked after.

Loss and Mental Health

When it comes to loss, it’s easy for the shift in mental health that comes with loss and grief to take us by surprise. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed in the coming weeks and months, which can hit with full force, but may later be followed by relief, particularly around long-protracted illness.

Losing anyone is difficult. The safety net you once had, is no longer there. Instead, you're exposed to the elements. But all of this is too late, when a death happens and going back isn’t an option.

Make talking 'part of your relationship'

Make talking part of your relationship. Nurture friendships, support and accept others may want to help, to offer an opinion. Others' opinions may help you to see your situation differently and often that's all that's needed. Words matter. Loss and grief are hard, hard when things aren’t spoken about, even harder when things aren’t spoken about and the door gets permanently closed.

Good intentions aren’t good intentions if the words aren’t said. It's always better to say what you want loved ones to hear, and for loved ones to be able to say what they feel they need to say. Then you can leave on a high note.