Are those not the two most adorable people on the planet. Ok, most grandparents would say the same thing. Margie is the picture of peace and dressed in her Independence Day outfit. Clio is hitting the pool and obviously looking forward to it. They have their whole lives in front of them. Every child is a treasure-if only all had the love, resources, and family commitment to reach their full potential.
My brother Bob passed away on May 4 and I have lost a few other friends and associates in the two months since. Seems like this is inevitable as I age. How do families deal with these losses? I received a card from a friend that was timely, it asked if I was taking care of myself? I had to think about it but mentally I thought yes. She went on to say that “the Vietnamese are much better at handling grief than we are—it’s a long process. They come together each week for 49 day and then on the 100th day after the death of a family member. The celebration of memory continues with a gathering 265 days later. Some families continue their ritual many years into the future. As the celebrations continue sadness turns to joy for those who are brought closer together by remembering. I like this custom and I really value a friend who took the time to check up and offer a thought provoking message.
Vietnamese culture is diverse with Strong roots in Confucianism, The Buddhist religion, Roman Catholicism and countless other belief systems. The idea of family is pervasive in their society and drives other cultural practices around the death of a loved one. My friend’s note gave me another reason to celebrate my brother’s life and my good fortune to be a part of a great family and community. My work life diversity of the team led to better solutions and it used to be that way in our country. Maybe that idea should be our political and social focus.
Enjoy the week end. Mike