As we enter into the Christmas season and prepare to say goodbye to 2018, I find myself thinking a great deal about the importance of cherishing those closest to us. For me, this hits very close to home because our family suffered a personal loss in 2018 with the unexpected death of our 45-year-old daughter. There will be a tremendous void at Christmas this year, and as I look back, I wish that we had taken more time together as a family over the years.
Our daughter had a good life, was married for almost five years, had a nice home in Bowness, and loved her career at Westjet. That was the daughter we knew, but below the surface there were problems she didn’t share. Not once had I given thought to the fact I would never have the chance again to tell her how much we loved her.
I openly speak of this tragedy not to seek sympathy, but rather to encourage everyone to take the time and reflect this holiday season on the importance of family and friends.
As you open gifts, enjoy festive gatherings, and eat good food, consider taking a few moments to celebrate and hold close those that are most important in your life. This year has taught me that one never knows what tomorrow brings.
