As I write this entry, we are getting closer to Thanksgiving. This means that we are also close to another date that has taken on a new meaning in my life over the last 5 or so years. That day is International Survivors of Suicide Day, which is always held on the Saturday before Thanksgiving. The name of the day pretty much gives away the fact that it is a day for survivors of suicide to remember the victims of suicide. Sadly, this is a day that is being observed by more and more people every year.
While for a few years I actually attended scheduled events for the day, over the last few years I have not done so. But, regardless, it is yet another reminder of what my family has lost. Although not the only one I have lost, I definitely think about my dad the most on this day.
What I have really been thinking about lately with my dad is all of the earthly things he has not been here for. I have been saddened thinking about how my dad would have loved spending time with my husband. In fact, I joke that I would have had to talk to my dad about making sure I had time to spend with my husband! I feel that my dad would have had him shooting, hunting, and fishing all of the time. Then, with my son, I can’t even imagine. He would be at our house all of the time and would want nothing more than to hang out with his grandson. I get sad thinking of how fun it would have been to see them together.
And so, the loss of my dad (or the loss of anyone) is not really a one time event. It is something that continues to bring you loss at different times and in different ways. International Survivors of Suicide Day is another reminder of that loss, but it is also a way to help give some meaning to it. So, if you are survivor of suicide I encourage you to look into this day and find out more.