12 Comments

I'm filled with forlorn and longing after reading this piece Renee. It makes me feel raw and human. Thank you for sharing this heartbreaking narrative with us.

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I'm so humbled that you resonated with this piece. It's the first story I've published, and, as you know as a writer, that can feel a bit vulnerable. Goodbyes are so very raw, and can split open our souls.

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May 8, 2022Liked by Renee Faber

It is something that is hard to think about. I can say for myself, everytime I have had to say goodbye- in a hospital room with a nurse nearby, at the veterinarian's office, or even at my own home with a vet doing a home visit- the presence of someone I don't know well has silenced me. No kitty ditties for my kitty who is leaving me, despite easily singing those almost every day to my kitties. No thank yous or I love yous to the person on the way out. Each time I say next time will be different. I hope I do not get so many chances to practice that I prefect the good bye.

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It is so difficult to think about. I imagine the silence you offered to those passing was full of love and was felt as clearly as words would have been understood. I, too, hope I don't have to often consider the way in which I offer goodbyes.

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Having long pondered the goodbyes I had to make last year to loved ones, this struck a chord and brought tears to my eyes. As Swarnali says, "I'm filled with forlorn and longing." Indeed—because no matter how we nurture our goodbyes from a place of love and compassion, it never seems enough. Thank you for sharing your thought-provoking words.

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Exactly my sentiments as well--final words never seem enough. For me, either a full silence bathed in love, or a simple I love you is as right as it can be. However, one never really knows until the moment moves through us.

I thought about your loss this year after I pressed publish and prayed this piece would not be too painful for you. Thank you for reading and offering your kind wisdom to this writing, it makes this publication deeper and more clear.

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That was beautiful to listen to. I definitely got lost for a moment <3

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Thank you for sharing your experience. It means so much to hear from readers. Thank you :)

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Memory plays such an important role in grief. What a beautiful and sad story. You capture the thrill and pains of loss so well. I always enjoy reading your work, Renee!

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Memory.... that's such a complex idea/subject the more I contemplate it. That's definitely a collaboration topic for us at some point.

Thank you, and I'm so grateful you are here, Adrian!

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May 8, 2022Liked by Renee Faber

SUPERB- I can see the parents on the dock and the emotions we all feel at one time. It is not to be escaped. How to deal with this life is a question we all struggle with. I love this story. Going to my sketchbook.

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Thank you so much! How to deal is indeed the looming question. As you know me well, you can imagine I say, keep going deeper, more subtle until the mind awakes and fears and hopes dissipate to reveal clear light of unshakable joy and peace. :) We are walking together on this ever-deepening understanding.

Can't wait to see what your sketch holds, reflecting this story!

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