Last night I was hugged by my 45 year old son, the only one of my 7 children I have seen since Covid began. The tears arrived immediately after. I cannot imagine what it will be to hug my grandson who went from 7 to 9 since last we were together or my granddaughter who I have yet to meet and hold. Your professor's relationship with his granddaughters prompted as much sorrow as it did joy for what I am missing in life. This pandemic has more ways of killing us than just the virus.
I took this relationship from my father who wanted it badly and would have given his all to my children because his and my relationship was so troubled. Reading this I wish I could have back those years and could give them all this unhindered love. Alas.
Perhaps I can give my own grandchildren that gift, should my children decide to have their own.
Thank you. Mostly I have. The complex, troubled relationship could yield a book - this is but one tiny sliver of the All - but your essay brought it into relief.
Courtney, your letters always inspire me, and your “unbearable” meditations have touched me at my core. My husband and I are planning a move to be near our daughter on the east coast as she starts a family. We are leaving other beloved family members on the far coast, along with friends and a cherished way of life. I’ve had doubts about our choice, but today’s contributions from a grateful grandpa confirmed what we knew in our hearts. Thank you both for this life and love-affirming post.
OMG I am in tears -thank you for such heartfelt posting. our grandaughters are now in college and , too , hope that the bond will be remembered and cherished by them as it is in our hearts.
Last night I was hugged by my 45 year old son, the only one of my 7 children I have seen since Covid began. The tears arrived immediately after. I cannot imagine what it will be to hug my grandson who went from 7 to 9 since last we were together or my granddaughter who I have yet to meet and hold. Your professor's relationship with his granddaughters prompted as much sorrow as it did joy for what I am missing in life. This pandemic has more ways of killing us than just the virus.
It's so true. The losses have been immeasurable. May we hold the little things as sacred as a result.
I took this relationship from my father who wanted it badly and would have given his all to my children because his and my relationship was so troubled. Reading this I wish I could have back those years and could give them all this unhindered love. Alas.
Perhaps I can give my own grandchildren that gift, should my children decide to have their own.
I hope you can forgive yourself, Susan. Sending love for that journey.
Thank you. Mostly I have. The complex, troubled relationship could yield a book - this is but one tiny sliver of the All - but your essay brought it into relief.
Courtney -this is a remarkable article. It's so powerful. This man is a giant among men. Thank you for this beautiful piece.
Courtney, your letters always inspire me, and your “unbearable” meditations have touched me at my core. My husband and I are planning a move to be near our daughter on the east coast as she starts a family. We are leaving other beloved family members on the far coast, along with friends and a cherished way of life. I’ve had doubts about our choice, but today’s contributions from a grateful grandpa confirmed what we knew in our hearts. Thank you both for this life and love-affirming post.
OMG I am in tears -thank you for such heartfelt posting. our grandaughters are now in college and , too , hope that the bond will be remembered and cherished by them as it is in our hearts.