Sometimes I feel . . .

2009 was a difficult year, as I lost both my mother and my very dearest friend. I'm certain that these people are gone from my life forever, and I do not believe I will see them in a "hereafter."

My comfort, then, comes in understanding that the death of a human being is no more or less signifcant than the death of any living thing; the parts wear out or the body becomes fodder for microscopic organisms in fulfillment of their life cycles. And all recycles, sooner or later, in the life cycle of the universe that surrounds us.

How very sad it is, that we have developed the ability to rely on emotional connections, to contemplate loss, to feel the absence of loved ones, and thus to grieve the emotional emptiness a death leaves behind. . .