Losing loved ones is hard, especially our parents. The loss leaves a void in us that nothing or no one can truly fill. We just learn to live with it. There are times when we miss them terribly and there are also times when we wish they could see how far we’ve come, the things we’ve accomplished, and the people we’ve become. Because they’re the ones who taught us everything and shaped us into well-functioning adults.
When Clare Mackintosh wished that her late father could see all the books she wrote, other people also joined in and shared life updates that they’d want their own late parents to know.
If someone you loved died a while ago, what do you wish they knew about your life now?
Mine: my dad / that libraries stock books I wrote.
— Clare Mackintosh ✈️ #HostageBook (@claremackint0sh) March 21, 2021
Some talked about turning their lives around and excelling in their careers while others spoke of meeting their partners and having children.
When my mom was dying (I was 22) she told my dad one of her biggest regrets is she would never meet my husband. She was very sick at my college grad party, but I had invited a guy I’d been chatting with & he hit it off w/ my mom all afternoon. Wish I could tell her that was him.
— Meredith Tate (@mltate24) March 22, 2021
My dad saw me leave uni at 19 because I couldn’t handle it, and went to work in a bar for the rest of the year. I’d love to tell him that six weeks after he died I tried again at a different uni and got a first class degree, and then a masters, and two more after that.
— Kathryn *WearAMask* Hunter (@KathrynHavelock) March 21, 2021
What a lovely thread, beautiful question and heartwarming responses!
My dad, who died when I was 19. After 22 years of his passing, I’d want him to know that I’ve turned out alright. Despite all the bumps & bruises, I’ve built a life on my own terms, and have a wonderful child 💜— Divya Chowdhury (@divyachowdhury) March 22, 2021
My dad. His death propelled me to start writing my first novel, six years ago. It comes out in June this year, and I wish he could be there to celebrate with me. The book is dedicated to him.
— susannahwise (@susannahwise) March 21, 2021
I wish my dad had lived long enough to see me run (so far) three marathons. I’m not sure he would have believed his eyes!! But I hope he would have been proud. I blow him a kiss when I cross the line 😘
— Anna Barcroft (@warmfuzzie) March 21, 2021
My Dad died when I had just got divorced and was a single mum with three little kids. He was so worried about us. I wish he knew that I met and married the love of my life and my kids are now wonderful successful grownups!
— Sarah Harkness (@sarahhark2) March 22, 2021
My mum and dad – that I undertook the St Johns Ambulance training and was approved to be a vaccinator and protect others from covid (which my Dad died from in Jan). They would have been very proud.
— Nikki Alvey (@NikkiAlvey) March 22, 2021
People also remembered their late grandparents and partners who motivated them to be the best versions of themselves.
My grandmother always said I should be an artist. She died when I was 15. At 24, when I had my 1st solo exhibit, the Sunday New York Times mentioned it as the exhibit pick of the week. I am a nonrepresentational painter on shaped hardboard, inspired by Nelly Sachs and Paul Celan.
— Sara J. Leone (@Solareena) March 22, 2021
My grandparents. My granddad loved books, and my grandmother encouraged my writing as a young child. I’d have loved for them to see me get published. I’m glad my dad did before he died in January. The next book will be dedicated to him. ❤
— Elle ☂️ (@seventhelle) March 21, 2021
16 years ago my husband died. We talked about my single future and he was adamant I must do whatever brought me happiness. So I did just that. Grabbed life, travelled, gave up my job, met a great man and I’ve been married for 8 years. He’d be very pleased with how it turned out
— S Stubbs (@sheenastubbs88) March 22, 2021
This thread is a wonderful reminder to keep your loved ones close and hug them frequently.