Almost six months ago someone had asked me if, after the interment for my parents in July, that would be the end of my grieving…would I be able to get on with my life and put everything behind me.

When the comment was made I had thought, “Maybe…maybe not. Grief is a journey. Is there really an end to grief?”

Well I have to say, as I sit here today, two-and-a-half months after the interment, I HAVE moved on.

Yes, I’ve changed.

Composing and delivering the eulogy at the celebration of life, and reading the poem at the interment, definitely provided closure for me. I had publicly said what needed to be said. I had done what needed to be done. And I do feel a huge release because of it. Mom and Dad are at peace. I did the best I could!

And it was so great having time afterwards with my sister, Marlene, to explore the Canadian Coast and Vancouver Island and the Okanagan.

Yes, I feel happy to be alive…I’m grateful for all I have and for the people in my life…and I can hardly wait to see what unfolds in the future.

Of course I still think about Mom and Dad…but it’s warm and peaceful.

I think the most difficult thing to cope with had been the waiting…the waiting to bury Dad’s ashes until after Mom had passed…it had ended up as a two-year wait. Feelings and thoughts had been left in limbo.

I realize now the acts of burying and paying final respects were critical for attaining peace.

I feel lighter.

I love them and miss them…but all is well.

Melanie Hack
Author of Who Killed My Sister, My Friend
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