A smile slips onto my face when thinking of the cartoon character Charlie Brown. He was the lead cartoon on the page for most of my childhood, and adolescent life. Often the comment was made in exasperation, with arms in the air. Far different than my idea of grief today. My idea of grief today runs along the more traditional definition; “the emotional suffering one feels when someone or something is taken away.” Very different, Charlie Brown.
The source, the Mayo Clinic, continues; “often the pain of loss can feel overwhelming, one may feel all kinds of difficult and unexpected emotions, from shock or anger to disbelief, guilt and sadness.”
Today, I experienced a different brand of grief from that of Charlie Brown, or described by the Mayo Clinic. It all started with a mid-afternoon package from the Fly Doctor. I was so busy, it was 15-20 minutes before I could open the package. When I did, to my surprise, my friend Doug had sent me an entire box of nymphs. If you are a fly-fisherman, you know this is the “holy grail”! Included was another fly box that I was planning to add to my pack. An unbelievably thoughtful gift. I called him at once to thank him.
When he answered, I thanked him and told him how “coincidentally” this was exactly what I needed. I shared about a gift this summer from a friend of mine from Oregon. I asked if he had read my blog from last summer, titled “Clancy”. He had not. I tried to share about the story of the flies I received this summer from Clancy’s son, John. I got choked up. I had been so touched by the gift from John; flies tied by his father. The reason I was so touched on both occasions is the genuine care and consideration given to me by my wonderful friends. Grace.
How is this “Good Grief”? Every time I think of Clancy, I miss his gentle way. Then, I think of the beautiful gifts I received. The timing of the gifts were perfect. Just when I needed a little touchstone. What I needed, I received from wonderful friends. Thank you, Doug!
My perspective shifted a little. It is a good life.
Let's see...how does this relate to the market? It doesn’t.
Appreciate the people who love and support you.
Thank you…r2