Pan's Labyrinth - Maybe

Probably going to see Pan's Labyrinth on Tuesday (late show at the Uptown) in case anyone else is interested. I've already convinced nosarious and thebrucie.

Sorry pandorasbox, I'm committing movie adultery again - it's only because you don't live in Cowtown.

Greaving For Parents

stephtopia lost her dad today. This post is mostly for her, but I thought others should read it. All my friends are at an age where their parent's mortality is beginning to loom.

First Steph, I'm truly sorry for your loss. I've been through the same thing twice now and it's not easy. I don't know a lot, but here's what I do know:

1) You have a lot of friends and family that are there for you. Take advantage of that. Lean on the ones around you. Let your loved ones lean on you too - in helping them you will help yourself.

2) There are resources available for grief counseling. Contact the hospital or hospice that your Dad passed away in, they can give you pointers. Make sure others are aware of it too.

3) The despair will go away soon. The grief will last longer but it too will ebb. You'll never stop missing your Dad though, and that's Ok. Eventually you will be able to look back on his memory with fondness instead of the pain you're experiencing right now.

4) Part of the despair is because the loss of a parent means that one of the people you've always depended on is gone. It's an indication that you're living life with less of a safety net. The safety net he provided was nice, but not necessary because he raised you well. Take pride in the fact that he did a good job.

5) Cry your eyes out whenever you feel the need.

Finally, from what you've told me, he deserves a rip-roaring wake. Get the stories of his younger days told during that wake. Remember how he was in his prime, rather then how he was in his final days.