The best and worst thing about your writing is that it’s like the beginning of an awesome conversation. I recommend Beth’s dad’s book- Management Lessons from Oz.
My dad had his first of a few strokes in 2017. Very different because your dad remains lucid, but I still identify with the change in relationship and perspective. He too worked hard to make a great retirement- they loved to travel and entertain. It was a reminder not to wait to enjoy time with Jake until the kids were older or we had more money or more time.
My grandmother-in-law also just passed away. It’s amazing how much it seems people of that age have gone through. She was 90 and lived part time in the US and part time completely alone in Poland- she was sharp and tough. I wonder if I’ll be that tough if I’m lucky enough to make it that long.
Facing mortality is a gift that reminds us to make the best of our lives...but it’s also a b****.
You're so right about what people in their eighties and nineties have gone through. When they were born, commercial flight wasn't even a thing yet. Think of all the technological changes that happened during their lives that have all led up to now where we can send dumb memes to each other in milliseconds :)
But they went through a lot of rough times too, so they had to be tough to get through it all. In a lot of ways, we have it so much easier these days.
We really do. I wonder sometimes if I worry about the stupidest things simply because I have the luxury to. This also brought up something I heard a comedian say one time. The gist was - all these products offer to add years to your life, but they always add years to the end. Not like 5 more years of your 20s or 30s where you feel great.
I spent almost all of 2018 with my father being ill and eventually passing away. We grew much closer and I think he finally forgave me for moving away to be Silicon Valley. It was one of the hardest years of my life but also the most beautiful. We look very much alike, so I got to watch myself pass away. Hang in there.
I cried reading this piece. Well done!
Thanks, Dad. I love you ♥️
Lyle, this was so beautifully written, and so very powerful.
Thanks, Kyla :)
The best and worst thing about your writing is that it’s like the beginning of an awesome conversation. I recommend Beth’s dad’s book- Management Lessons from Oz.
Haha, I’ll take that as a compliment!
Although, we can have a conversation here. What did this make you think of?
My dad had his first of a few strokes in 2017. Very different because your dad remains lucid, but I still identify with the change in relationship and perspective. He too worked hard to make a great retirement- they loved to travel and entertain. It was a reminder not to wait to enjoy time with Jake until the kids were older or we had more money or more time.
My grandmother-in-law also just passed away. It’s amazing how much it seems people of that age have gone through. She was 90 and lived part time in the US and part time completely alone in Poland- she was sharp and tough. I wonder if I’ll be that tough if I’m lucky enough to make it that long.
Facing mortality is a gift that reminds us to make the best of our lives...but it’s also a b****.
Man, that's so hard about your dad, Katie.
You're so right about what people in their eighties and nineties have gone through. When they were born, commercial flight wasn't even a thing yet. Think of all the technological changes that happened during their lives that have all led up to now where we can send dumb memes to each other in milliseconds :)
But they went through a lot of rough times too, so they had to be tough to get through it all. In a lot of ways, we have it so much easier these days.
We really do. I wonder sometimes if I worry about the stupidest things simply because I have the luxury to. This also brought up something I heard a comedian say one time. The gist was - all these products offer to add years to your life, but they always add years to the end. Not like 5 more years of your 20s or 30s where you feel great.
Lol, that's so true
Once again, my day improves when I read your work. Thank you Lyle
Glad you enjoyed it, Chandler :)
I spent almost all of 2018 with my father being ill and eventually passing away. We grew much closer and I think he finally forgave me for moving away to be Silicon Valley. It was one of the hardest years of my life but also the most beautiful. We look very much alike, so I got to watch myself pass away. Hang in there.
That's a powerful story, Will. I remember reaching out to you during that time. I appreciate you sharing your story. Sorry for your loss.
Lyle, I just love your writing. I’m listening to Tony Hsieh’s book right now and your styles are very similar.
Wow, that's an incredible compliment, Kris! Thank you for reading