Choice

In the past few months, there have been many well publicized losses of great people.
There have also been less publicized losses of 'other' people
who were no less great, just less well known.
The losses are consuming and overwhelming and devastating.
The losses are heartbreaking and life-changing.
They bring great sadness and many tears.
And, though we must walk through that phase,
I truly believe the healthiest way to look at things is this:

Rather than be saddened by the hole they've left,
rejoice in the memories that you carry forward.
If your life was touched, enriched, bettered, enlightened,
that person was a gift ~ for however long they graced this earth.
Grab that joy.
Hold on to it with a ferocity the likes of which you've not known before.
That piece of them that you own is yours.
That is your treasure, your brass ring, your silver lining.
Keep it deep within your heart.
Wear it proudly every day.