A special kind of pain is felt when your mentor’s time on earth is through. Whether the person is famous (like writer Maya Angelou) or a family member, the loss can throw you into a tailspin of sadness. Often times, when we are grieving a great teacher or guide, we are not only grieving the memories or moments that we’ve had with them but also what lessons they haven’t yet taught. It’s as if our personal GPS has lost its signal and we are suddenly lost. We keep showing up to class and there is no teacher. There is no substitute.
What we can’t see, in the blurriness of our pain, is that our great teachers have left us with a very detailed road map. A lesson plan, if you will. A true mentor never really dies. Their work lives on in you. You have been blessed with the treasures they have left behind, be it in writings, art, or music. Maybe old family recipes, stories or mementos. You have already been touched by their lessons, wisdom and grace and those things can never die.
If someone you look up to made a difference while they were here on earth, just imagine what they can do now that they have wings.
I recently lost my big brother (big brother big sisters), friend, mentor, and life coach. He was always there for me with advice when I needed it. Any major life event he counselled me on. Ironically he would be the one I’d go to for advice on losing someone.
He was a brilliant and wise man, and I hope perhaps that his light may shine through my comment here. If you read this then please give a smile and have a positively amazing day!
I understand how painful it is to lose someone very special. My girlfriend Kd who was in my wedding died of oral cancer a few years ago. I still miss miss her. I believe She is in a better place. 🙂
I lost a beloved mentor and family friend a couple years ago. He was a wonderful man full of life and compassion. He would always give good council when asked, and was a genuine example of God’s love. I pray for his family every day, that they would find peace in their grief.
Shannon, A friend shared of the sudden passing of someone who was a mentor to him. I shared your words to my friend. Such a great comfort they were. THANK YOU
No truer words have been written. “It’s as if our personal GPS has lost its signal and we are suddenly lost.” ?