This isn’t much of a sports-related article but rather one of those articles or an open letter to anyone who has lost someone in their life, whether that be a close friend, a parent, or family member this one is for you.
Yesterday would have been my dad’s 60th birthday, for those of you who knew my dad Randy Robbins you understand how great of a human being he was, and I couldn’t have asked for a better father or role model in my life.
It’s so different how life becomes after losing someone, especially a parent. Growing up we all think our dads are the biggest, strongest, and most incredible person to ever exist, after all they are dad, and they can do anything! I can remember car rides and vacations with my dad or driving in the mountains up some pretty wild terrain, or grasping onto him on his Harley because every time I was with him, I got this overwhelmingly good feeling of always being safe with him.
My dad was someone I couldn’t wait to tell everything to, yes even the bad things. He instilled such a conscious in me that even if I was in the wrong, I felt I had to tell my dad because if I did it felt like a weight off my shoulders, and when dad knows you just feel better.
So right before Covid had started and would eventually be what got my dad in the end, my childhood idol died in a horrific helicopter accident along with 7 other people. I remember frantically calling my dad and asking if he heard the news, he said no and I explained what had happened, I was a grown ass man nearly 30 years old crying to my dad about losing someone I never met, and instead of making fun or telling me something asinine he told me to turn on sports center and watch Around the Horns Tony Reali talk on what it’s like to lose someone you’ve never met. “It’s ok to be affected by the passing of someone you didn’t know personally, someone’s passing, part of you can pass too. Part of your childhood.” Just the other day I asked a friend of mine to ask my son what you say when you shoot a piece of paper in the garbage can, he responded “Kobe!” my son never even watched Kobe before it’s something I know my father would adore.
To be affected by someone’s passing is compassion in the purest form, you can’t live a life untouched by grief or tragedy, it doesn’t get better with time it gets better with time and work.
Here are a few things I found can help and things I still need to improve on. Thank you for reading.
Coping with Grief and Moving Forward
Losing someone is never easy. Whether it’s a sudden loss or something you’ve been preparing for, the pain can be overwhelming. Grief is a natural response to loss, and it’s important to remember that everyone grieves differently. Here are some tips for coping with grief and moving forward after losing someone.
Allow Yourself to Grieve
ing is a natural process, and it’s important to allow yourself to feel all of the emotions that come with it. Whether it’s sadness, anger, or confusion, it’s okay to feel these things. Don’t try to suppress your emotions or pretend that everything is okay. It’s important to acknowledge your feelings and allow yourself to grieve.
Lean on Your Support System
During times of grief, it’s important to lean on your support system. This can include family members, friends, or even a support group. Don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it. Your loved ones are there to support you during this difficult time.
Remember the Good Times
One way to cope with grief is to remember the good times you shared with your loved one. Celebrate their life and the memories you shared together. This can help you to focus on the positive and find comfort in the memories you’ve created.
Take Care of Yourself
During times of grief, it’s important to take care of yourself. This can include getting enough sleep, eating healthily, and exercising. Taking care of yourself can help you to feel better both physically and emotionally.
Seek Professional Help
If you’re struggling to cope with your grief, it’s important to seek professional help. This can include seeing a therapist or counselor who can help you to work through your emotions and find healthy ways to cope.
Moving Forward
Moving forward after losing someone can be difficult, but it’s important to remember that you’re not alone. Grief is a natural process, and everyone grieves differently. Remember to take things one day at a time, and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it. With time, you will learn to cope with your grief and find ways to move forward.
