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the role of primary care-giver?
I suppose there must be only a slight divide between recurring thoughts, which remind one to focus on what is most important in life, and a less healthy rumination that spirals toward depression. My children and wife have helped me to locate and reside in that oft elusive domain where memories can bring healing. While, at times, I've needed to retreat into a solitary place to allow a troubling sentiment an opportunity to run its course, most of the time I've been able to provide the emotional support my family needs. My wife and children are very affectionate. Hugs and kisses accompany almost every encounter as we move in and out of each other's lives. I'll admit that sometimes I feel as if such displays are an incursion on my personal space, but I'll never turn away another chance to express my love.

Like most families, we've enjoyed an abundant share of that mysterious dichotomy of human experience. Joyful encounters, painful separations, dreams fulfilled, and - my personal nemesis - the regret of words left unsaid. As life would have it, sometimes we have to say goodbye to the ones we love, and, all too often, those goodbyes are final. These are painful facts of life.

Everyone experiences grief. Children, unfortunately, feel this emotion in adult-sized doses that can be truly unbearable. I wish we could shield them from such intense suffering. The next best thing? Maybe I can take a cue from my first grade teacher. She probably never knew the full measure of comfort she extended to a brokenhearted little boy as she provided the wondrous gift of presence. I didn't thank her with words, but I'll bet I gave her a hug she'll never forget. I wasn't about to miss another opportunity.

Learn more about this author, Mindi Luton.
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