I Lost A Parent At A Young Age

Losing a parent in itself is one of the most difficult things a person can go through in their lifetime. At least that's how it was in my experience. Losing one of the people that were supposed to be there to take care of you, that was their purpose as a parent, to take care of you then when you need it the most they were gone. And to lose them young is especially difficult because you are in the midst of growing up, that's when you need the support the most from your family.

You probably don't go a day without thinking about them. Normal day to day occurrences aren't terrible, it gets easier as time goes on but holidays can be terrible. Mother's Day and Father's Day are obvious ones but even things like Fourth of July can be difficult when you recall memories with them helping you set off firecrackers in your old driveway. But everyday thoughts range from things like, "What they would be doing now?" or "How it would be to call them up and just chat about your day?" -- you know, normal stuff about homework and friends, talk about the election. This is a privilege that most young adults that haven't lost a parent don't think of. I encourage those who have their parents to cherish every second they get to have with them. Enjoy hugs, free meals and parental advice because you never know how soon they will be taken from you.