As you know, I’m Italian. I say that as if it explains everything about me … maybe it does. We all experience the same emotions and most often, we deal with them in the same way. I can tell you that my Italian family cries, hugs and laughs a lot (and the laughing usually results in more crying!).
My last remaining aunt (my mother’s sister) cried this weekend. The most heartbreaking was when she saw my daughter. I could see it coming and I could feel it myself. She grabbed her and just started to hug her and sobbed. I couldn’t help myself and cried too. Later that night, my daughter asked why my aunt cried when she hugged her. I reminded my daughter of how much she looks like the Grassi family and that she is a direct reminder to my aunt of the loss of her “favorite” sister (my mom). I cried because it hit me just how much my mom would have loved this whole experience of her grandkids becoming adults. My daughter nodded with some understanding. Friends, if your parents are still around, tell them how much you love them.
I cried when I was watching one of my favorite movies in the hotel – When Harry Met Sally. I love watching how slowly, ever so slowly, the walls come down between these two people … in such a real way. We all have those walls and we all need to find ways to let them down in safe situations (and sometimes even when we’re not so sure it’s safe).
I watched my daughter tear up (and I, of course cried) as she said good-bye to the girls from development camp. I know that feeling. People come into your life and they mean something. They make a difference. Some of them you will never see again (like some of the people I happen upon in my life). Some, will become long-standing friends (like these girls with my daughter). But, saying good-bye, regardless of the circumstances, is one of life’s most emotional experiences.
I cried saying good-bye to my family. These are the members of my mom’s family that I don’t often see. I am reminded of how much I love and miss them each time I visit. I am also reminded how easy it is to reconnect with those you truly love (family and friends). I miss you guys already!
So, all in all a typical weekend with me. Tears, tears, a lot of laughing and hugging everyone I could (including the parents of my daughter’s new friend). Hey, why not – I’m Italian!!
Here we go — the second half of summer. Let’s ENJOY! Have a wonderful day!
theyearof50 