Sense2Love

Hello again to all at Sense2Love. I had an unexpected absence here, as my girlfriend’s father recently passed away. Although he was not feeling well, it was a shock to her and her family. Of course, these are some of the times when a relationship is most appreciated, as the loss of a loved one, especially a parent, is so large, it takes the support of many people to help move on and heal this pain. Often, it can be a pain that never fully heals, but dulls over the passage of time.

It’s hard to watch someone you care about go through something that painful too. Feelings of helplessness and frustration to be able to take the pain away can get in the way of just being present and available to that other person. Just being there, and showing you care can be the best thing, even if it feels inadequate in many ways.

Of course, a new relationship can be strained by such an event, as one person may need support that the other isn’t willing or able to give yet, due to a lack of commitment or connection. Being honest while being supportive is recommended, but it’s understandable to provide more than you were ready to give now, and then sort out the feelings later. Best wishes to anyone struggling with grief or loss, especially during holidays when the expectation is to be happy or full of love. Be genuine and allow yourself to feel what you need to feel.