Lost and Found

Today’s writing prompt said “name something valuable you lost and the best thing you found.”

The biggest loss I’ve experienced is my family. My mom died when I was 13. Cancer took her within 6 months of diagnosis. My grandfather on my dad’s side died that same year. Dad, Grandma and I lived together until I became an adult. Being raised by your grandmother is an experience, I tell ya. My friend’s moms were pretty happy to pitch in here and there as well.

I was 22 when Dad passed. Diabetes just took over. I currently am battling against the same path. The day of Dad’s funeral, Grandma made some snide comment to me in front of everyone about how much rent was I going to charge her to remain in the house I just inherited. I told her that was ridiculous. She’s my grandmother, why would I do that? I helped her and my uncle as much as I could but eventually they decided that wasn’t good enough. I lost them too. I don’t blame them. Things were said and done on both sides that led to this decision. Me, acting from a state of shock and them, well, I can’t speak for their thought process.

After the falling out I grew a lot closer to Mom’s side of the family. My mom’s mom and I didn’t always see eye to eye but I grew to respect and admire her more when I grew to be old enough to not know everything.

My mom’s baby sister and younger brother took over the parent roles as best they could from far away. I’m a stubborn one so it wasn’t easy. About 5 years ago, my uncle fell sick. He went the the bakery to buy bread and was found in the parking lot. He was in the hospital a few days and never woke up.

Grandma we lost almost 2 years ago. My remaining family is spread out. Things are different now. My aunt makes sure we all stay connected.

While I’ve experienced a lot of loss, there’s also been discoveries along the way. I discovered a pretty big family secret after losing Dad. Sorting through stuff I found things my family has done, thought about, was interested in. Some of it gave me an appreciation of where some of my personality traits come from. I found my inner strength, I had to be on my own. I was now completely responsible for myself. Cleaning out Grandma’s house found all kinds of treasures. I think she had 3 of everything to ever exist. Some items I have in my possession and I will always have my memories.

The toughest losses have definitely been my family but in turn, the best thing to find was where I came from.