When It’s Time to Say Goodbye

September 6th, 2009 · No Comments

Welcome back!

Don’t put a period where God has a comma - Shari Rose Shepherd

As caregivers, there comes a time when we must say goodbye whether we are caring for a family member or patient, or a special loved one. It is something we have all had to do at one time or another.

What I have learned is, no matter how many times I have had to say a final goodbye to someone I love, it never seemed to get any easier.

Saying goodbye is an on-going process

As we enter into the process of letting go, there are a few thoughts and concepts to note about saying goodbye:

Saying goodbye is acknowledging the many hours, days, years spent together.
Saying goodbye involves the many events and memories we have experienced with that person.
Saying goodbye includes what might have occurred in the future.
Saying goodbye takes time and patience.
Saying goodbye is not a one-time experience; it is a process.
Saying goodbye involves forgiveness, where necessary. Either forgiving them or ourselves.
Saying goodbye means we must believe they are in a better place.
Saying goodbye provides us time to express our feelings; allow tears to flow, laugh when humorous memories come forth.

Hopefully, saying goodbye provides an opportunity to accept, embrace, talk, and reminisce. Others may not have the chance to say goodbye in person, or prior to their loved one’s death, but the process remains the same.

Saying goodbye is an opportunity to move forward

But saying goodbye is always a time of letting go of the past, moving on emotional and physically into the future.

Caregivers, know this is a new beginning. We recently discussed having an exit plan, and hopefully you have begun to think about your future.

Saying goodbye ultimately means accepting the past as you move on with the present. Then you will be able to accept there is a future for you with a world of possibility.

If you have any thoughts or ideas to add to this list, you are welcome to leave them in the comment section. We would love to hear your thoughts about letting go following the death of a loved one.