We have all heard the old expression, "'Tis better to have loved and lost, than never to have loved at all."
I assume that this refers to romantic love. Still, no matter the type of love it is, and no matter how we lose the person that we loved - the loss is signficant.
The New York Times this week provides a feature that highlights this love and loss. The paper invited people to submit photographs of loved ones who died in 2012, along with a few words in their feature "The Lives They Loved." I found this to be extraordinarily beautiful .... the photos along with the remembrances, the accolades and the joy from those who who remain here on earth. If you have the time, I recommend that you peruse through all of the feature. Then, you can recollect your own "lost loves" - and reflect on how fortunate you may be if you are still surrounded with those you love the best.
Here is a mother, escaped from the Nazis, whose strength, accomplishments and love are recalled.
And here, what must be the deepest loss of all - that of a child.
My thanks to the NY Times for such an astoundingly moving and beautiful feature.
To those who lost this year: may your sweet memories overshadow your grief.
And to those who still share this world with their loved ones - treasure your gifts while you have them. However much time it is - it is never enough. Yet.... always better to have loved.
Comments