Without your Dad

As September nears, we are reminded of Fathers Day.

Fathers Day is a day that can mean different things to different people, even within the same family unit. Perhaps the person who died was a father, a grandfather, a son, a husband, a brother or perhaps a father figure to you. Maybe the absence of this person brings back memories of happy times spent together that will now be different because the significant person is not here.

A grieved person doesn't have to do what they have always done on Fathers Day as that can seem too empty or painful. Sometimes planning to do something different but still acknowledging the day can be helpful, such as ...

• a picnic in a different park
  
• lunch or dinner out at a restaurant or park
  
• lighting a candle
  
• having coffee and cake at the memorial park
  
• being with close friends
  
• go for a long walk along the beach or forest path
  
• playing some music that reminds you of him
  

Being active can help the day pass.

It is important to remember all family members are likely to be grieving in their own different ways, having their own needs. At an emotional time this can create strain within relationships in families.

As I remember my paternal grandfather (Pa C) and maternal grandfather (Pa G) on Fathers Day, I give thanks for fathers around the world and the important part they play in the lives of their children.

Kind regards,
Ian Cowling
General Manager