Dear friends,
What a harrowing week it has been. If my countenance in this week’s practice does not look particularly chipper, it’s because I forced myself to the mat while I traveled to and from the ICU where my father was admitted this past Tuesday morning. After a 20-year long battle with prostate cancer, he succumbed to his disease, leading my family into the Mystery that is the after-life this evening, 4/20/19 at 7:40pm. I don’t mean to bum you out, but we’re a small enough community here that I want to be honest about what’s going on.
Despite not wanting to prioritize my yoga practice this week, I knew that getting myself to the mat would provide therapy and fuel for enduring the long hours of waiting, wondering, and weeping that this week held for my family and myself. This is the most difficult week I have ever lived through, and having a practice to turn to provided a sense of normalcy and security that I am thankful for.
The practice itself is a moderate-level, mindfully paced, sneakily challenging practice that includes twists, side plank variations, an arm balance, and a forearm stand variation.
Squeeze your loved ones in honor of my dad, John Butler, who leaves behind a wife of 40 years, two grandchildren, and five incredibly close, incredibly loving children who each move from love just as he did.
Leigha
3 Responses
Leigha,
I lived through the same thing with my dad in 2016.
I wish you all the courage and send you the all the love that I possibly can through this message.
Just know, putting all ideas about an after life aside. He lives on in you and in your kids. Who you are, your way of speaking, your perspectives, what you like …all the little things…youll pass them on to your step babies and your son without even noticing. His voice will continue speaking in you. And then in them. Bless you
Erika
Oh Leigha, I am so sorry. My thoughts are with you and your family. Take comfort in knowing how much joy you all must have brought him and how he lives on through your love. I will most certainly squeeze my loved ones in honor of your dad. We’re all with you.
So sorry to hear Leigha, your sessions have provided calm and grounding in times of pain for me. I hope your family will be able to find the same peace in time. Thoughts are with you.