Saying Goodbye

“Perhaps they are not the stars, but rather openings in Heaven where the love of our lost ones pours through and shines down upon us to let us know they are happy.” -Unknown 

The last few years I have lost so many people I love unexpectedly. I feel like even when you know death is coming, even though you know one day it is a fate we will all meet, there is no way of really being ready for it. We love the people we love and we want them to live forever and perhaps they do, in our hearts. Saying goodbye is hard. 

I am no expert on the subject of death. I’m sharing how I cope with it. My spiritual journey has led me to believe my ancestors are still with me guiding me and protecting me. This belief motivates me to have courage to follow my heart and live my life fearlessly. The COVID-19 Pandemic reminds me everyday of how little time we have and to cherish every moment.

Steve Jobs 

Entrepreneurial legend and co founder of Apple, Steve Jobs has influenced and motivated me for quite some time. His commencement speech in 2005 at Stanford University had a great impact on me learning how to say goodbye and to date is the best advice I have received about death.

“Remembering that I’ll be dead soon is the most important tool I’ve ever encountered to help me make the big choices in life. Because almost everything — all external expectations, all pride, all fear of embarrassment or failure — these things just fall away in the face of death, leaving only what is truly important. Remembering that you are going to die is the best way I know to avoid the trap of thinking you have something to lose. You are already naked. There is no reason not to follow your heart.” ~ Steve Jobs

 

I hold on to how much my loved ones loved me and use that as motivation to get through the hard days. Knowing my grandmother wouldn’t want me to be sad, she prayed for me everyday, gives me comfort. My grandfather is immensely proud, I promised him I would make sure people remember my name, his name, MASON… and they do. I’m following my heart each day and agree with Steve Jobs there is absolutely no reason not to.

Saying Goodbye to Sherisse “Rere” Fonville

Last week, I shared I lost someone I loved. Her name was Sherisse Fonville and today is the day we say our final goodbyes and celebrate her life. No, I’m not ready. I’m sure her family is gathering all the strength they have for this moment and the difficult weeks ahead. Remember, seeking support during difficult times is critical for your well-being rather from family, friends, your church, or a professional therapist. 

Loosing my aunties and my uncle has been hard, I miss them so much. My aunties, Bertha (2019) and Danielle (2020) pushed me to be my best possible self. My uncle Gill (2020), he always checked on me, his love was immense. I wish we had more time but until I see them again I will make sure they are never forgotten. 

Again, this speech had a major impact on me and really made me think about what I would do if I knew today was the last day of my life. Last year, I had a near death experience and all I wanted to do was tell my daughter I love her one last time. I’m happy I’m still here and I’m telling her I love her every day. 

“It made an impression on me, and since then, for the past 33 years, I have looked in the mirror every morning and asked myself: “If today were the last day of my life, would I want to do what I am about to do today?” And whenever the answer has been “No” for too many days in a row, I know I need to change something.” ~ Steve Jobs 

Full Speech: https://news.stanford.edu/2005/06/14/jobs-061505/

Every day is a gift, that’s why we call it the present. Saying goodbye is difficult but find the strength to use it as motivation to keep going. Find what you love and do it. Cherish your loved ones and tell them you love them as much as you can. Life is short, live. 

Do what you love, love what you, #befearless! 

Do you have a question? I’d love to hear from you, please don’t be shy, contact me!

Fierce & Love,