Don't forget to tell your loved ones I love you

[leanneortbals]

Last Saturday, my 14 year old cousin Lucy died in a plane crash in NYC. I was devastated by the news and spent the past week with my aunt in Manhattan helping out in whatever small way I could. Losing a loved one shook me to the core but also gave me a new perspective on cherishing each and every day.

Lucy's dad hadn't been particularly interested in her life in the past couple of years. He told her that you don't need a birthday present every year and he didn't go to her last dance recital, which took place just 2 days before her death. Now, he lost his daughter with no warning and he must live for the rest of his life knowing that he didn't express his love to her before she died. Please, don't make the same mistake that Lucy's dad made. Tell your loved ones that you love them and show them in every way you can. Reach out to your friends often and even smile at a stranger on the street. Live life to the fullest.

I usually use music as my release and I sing at the top of my lungs at every chance I get. I feel hollow inside after losing my cousin and for several days after I couldn't sing, not even to my favorite songs. Last night, I sang for the first time and though at first I had to force it and it brought tears to my eyes, the music made me feel better. Today I put a Sick Puppies mix in the CD player in my car and in some small way, it helped. I have to thank Sick Puppies for being there for me in the happiest of times and also in heartache. No matter what, I know I can rely on them. Even though the music can't bring Lucy back, it helps.

[*J*]

I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your cousin. It is especially difficult to deal with someone passing who is so young. But you are right, and I will heed your message! As I type this I am also expressing to my family how much I love them. In our busy lives it is easy to loose sight of just how grateful we should be for the special people around us. Thank you for bringing that back into focus.

[Brianna]

I am so sorry for your loss. This was really heartfelt, and really good advice given that I will be sure to listen to. I'm glad the band could at least help you a little bit through such a tough time. My prayers are with you and your family

[Heather]

I am so sorry about your cousin. That's a good message to send to everyone, thank you for that.

[hamjen]

I am truly sorry to hear about your cousin, what a tragedy. This is a great message that we can all stand to hear and do more of...telling and showing our loved ones how much we love them. Thanks and prayers and healing thoughts to yoru family.

[Lisa]

I'm am so sorry for your loss There is nothing worse than losing a family member or a friend. I'm glad music is helping you cope. Listening to music always makes me feel better, I think it's good therapy. I hope you get to feeling better soon.

[crystal08]

I am so sorry for your loss. Dealing with losing someone close to you is tough. I also have found that music can help you cope with a rough situation. Thank you for the message it does truly remind us not to take anything or anyone for granted.

[leanneortbals]

Wow y'all are so nice and thank you for your kind words. I am amazed more and more by how wonderful everyone is on this forum. I also think it's funny that everyone that has replied happened to put a in the post!!