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Sarah Todd's avatar

I love this so much, Jenny. So much wisdom for everyone here.

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Tim Dawkins's avatar

I am so glad that I recently subscribed to your work here because this post really hit home for me, especially since I just recently wrote about grief myself. I especially loved, "Relationships are everything." It's so true. We take for granted that we will just have people around as we age. Friendships feel effortless and a simple matter of circumstance in childhood. Nobody tells you just how much work they are to maintain as we get older. I appreciate the reminder. I also mourn a bit that I will never have my own children to impart such wisdom to, although I know that's not even a guarantee they would listen!

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Jenny Anderson's avatar

I loved your post on grief. Captured what I hear from so many teachers.

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Jenny Anderson's avatar

Thank you lovely. Sending hugs on all days, this one in particular.

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Anne Baldisseri's avatar

Love everything about this list. So many points really resonated with me, from reading a book next to my husband while he watches a movie to cuddling with my three dogs, to being in nature as much as I can. Thank you for reminding us about what is important!

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Monika Sochorova's avatar

Thank you for sharing this. I’ve thought about dying many times—maybe because my dad passed away rather early. Now, as a mum, I’m trying my best to be a good one even though I see some limitations. Every day, I remind myself how fragile life is and how it can end at any moment. We never know when our last day will be. This is the one thing that’s fair for everyone.

Thinking about what you wrote, I’ve decided to start a diary for my daughter. I’ll write her a positive note every day, and one day, I’ll give it to her. Thank you for inspiring me, Jenny.

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Jenny Anderson's avatar

What a beautiful idea!

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Yimin Yao's avatar

When my colleague and friend passed away unexpectedly last year, my first instinct was to gather anecdotes from her friends at work, creating a collection that would one day help her two little boys understand their mother—not just as a loving parent, but as a talented, fierce force in her profession. It has gotten me to think about creating a collection of short stories (with some lessons learned for life) for my own girls too - just in case!

Thank you for sharing this post and the beautifully written advices! It has inspired and motivated me to get started on my version for my kids!

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Jessy Day's avatar

This is so beautiful. I'm sorry for the loss of your brother and your lost opportunity to capture his personal experiences. That he imparted on you the urgency to do for your kids what you wanted for his, helps us all. And so, his legacy lives on. Thank you!

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anne sundberg's avatar

Beautifully expressed Jenny Anderson. Thank you.

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