How much influence should my parents have on me now that I am 40?
You probably the saw the tribute that I did for my father who passed away in January. Losing a parent is a new experience for both my wife and me. Hopefully, we will not experience it again for a very long time.
Being away from our parents for over twenty years likely lessens their direct involvement in every part of our lives. There are those things that come to mind in different situations where internally we would ask, "What did Dad do in cases like this?" or "How did Mom fix this cake?"
Now that my father is gone I find that I think of his influence on my life all the more. When things happen I want to call him. It is like his influence has increased exponentially. Then I was browsing through CNN the other day and this article jumped out at me. It was about adults who are relieved when their parents die. At first I was shocked wondering how anyone could think this way. As my empathy returned, I was reminded that some people's relationship with their parents is not good- abusive, controlling, etc... I am thankful that I miss my Dad and am not relieved that he is gone.
For those who have had a parent die, do you find that their influence in your life has changed any? Please fill out the survey to the right so we can gain some insight.
Bryan
A return to lighter things in the next post- subliminal messages from our children.
