OT: "How are you?"

Thanks.

It seems like it's a rare person these days who takes the time to make others, especially strangers, feel like they matter. Kudos.

I try to only say what I mean (as opposed to what's expected). Sounds like we're alike that way.

Not having the POV (in this life, at least) to know how it feels in later decades, but at this point in my life, for me at least, it's the age of the person who died that makes the difference for me. Much as I miss the older aunts & uncles that I've lost in the last decade, it's not the same as losing someone in their 30s or 40s (& I couldn't imagine the pain of losing a child, at any age for both child & parent).

{{{{M-C}}}} Wow, I wouldn't wish a year like that on anyone! In fact, that's what worries me. Dad is in good health, but he is 83. He's outlived 5 older siblings & 1 younger one. It's only he & a brother 5 years younger left. Plus, he has 4 sisters-in-law to worry about.

I'm glad for those of you who can find comfort in your beliefs. I respect everyone's right to believe (or not) as they choose. That path isn't mine. My friend was a Christian. We enjoyed discussing life, death, beliefs, etc & I so looked forward to more conversations on those subjects as we grew older & our perceptions of life & death changed.

My sincere sympathies on your losses, both the loss of their lives & the loss of those experiences you would've shared together.

Ditto.

Thanks so much. I have hours of stories, yet hoped for years left together to create so many more.

She was, & I'm sure that her number one worry about not being here would be for his welfare.

Thanks, M-C.

Alicia

{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{Alicia}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}

M-C

Thanks.

deep depression for which I'm still digging out of.

{{{Kate}}} :::sending hugs your way:::

A family member of mine was murdered when I was 17. That's definitely something you're never prepared for. I hope the guy who did it is behind bars for life & you don't have to suffer through parole hearings every year or two.

I can only imagine how terrified you were until you heard from your husband on 9/11. It was hard enough watching from 3000 miles away & wondering if I knew anyone there.

Thanks. Could've used the tissues at work today when I started crying.

I've been responding, "Lousy. Is 2005 over yet?" :-/

Thanks for the support & good thoughts.

Alicia

Thanks.

Good point. Sure seems that way.

Thanks, Theresa. And everyone here. I really appreciate your support.

Alicia

Thanks.

Good point. Sure seems that way.

Thanks, Theresa. And everyone here. I really appreciate your support.

Alicia

Alicia

Oh Alicia:>( Such a sad situation:>(

Unfortunately though, you are right. "How are you " is one of the biggest clichés our society uses.

But I'm genuinly interested in how you feel too, so feel free to chat about it anytime:>) Prayers & thoughts are with you