A blogger’s last post

This morning I came across a post shared by my friend Becky Johns. It was a post written by Derek Miller, a writer and editor, who passed away yesterday. He drafted his last post prior to his passing and instructed family members to post upon his death.

I encourage you to read the “The Last Post,” as well. I’d recommend that you go to a quiet place where you can be alone, as it is quite emotional.

As I wept reading the post this morning, it filled me with mixed emotions ranging from sadness (at his family’s loss) to joy (of his celebration of life) to sorrow (for only now getting a chance to read his work).

And then, it sparked something inside me–as intense emotion often does.

His last post wasn’t about how many friends or followers he had, nor about how much money he made or what luxury car he most recently purchased. No, he talked about his wife, children, friends and family. The things that mattered most to him.

I hesitate to use the word lucky, but not all of us will have the ability to say goodbye in such a heartfelt, poignant way. In fact, many of us, myself included, don’t take advantage of the opportunity to tell the people in our lives how much they matter while we are still here.

So, I’d like to take a break from our regularly scheduled social media and PR content and share my own “last” post. If this was the last post I’d ever get a chance to write, these are the people I would write it to and this is what I’d say:
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To my husband (Trey) –

I’m so thankful for your love and support. You are my best friend and inspire me, daily, to be the best person I can be. Throughout our marriage of almost six years (and hopefully many, many more), you have stood by as I’ve shared my hopes and dreams and never once told me I couldn’t do something.

There are so many things I admire about you and have never articulated: unwavering and faithful commitment to a promise, ability to say you’ll change something and just do it, hard work, leadership, pride in your home and family, the joy of being around friends, making a party REALLY a party…I could go on. I’ve never met anyone like you and I love that I get to continue to learn new things about you. I only hope I am able to give you the same love, comfort and support in return for the rest of our lives.

To my mom (Kathy) and dad (Steve) –

I would never, ever be where I’m at today if it wasn’t for you. Even as a little girl you told me I could do or be anything I wanted. You allowed me to explore when I was feeling courageous and hide in your arms when I was frightened or unsure of myself. You set extremely high expectations for parents and love all three of your “famous Parker girls” in your own, unique way. As I’ve become an adult one of my favorite things about our relationship is that we’ve become such good friends.

You taught me the value of home. Not necessarily the physical location, but of creating your own special place where you can just be. Living in the country as a kid, I know I complained–but it wasn’t until I owned my own home that I “got it.” Thanks for putting up with me!

I continue to rely on your for advice and guidance and know that you’ll never steer me wrong. I love you.

To my in-laws (Gary, Laurie and Todd)  –

I couldn’t ask for a more wonderful “second” family. Your love, support and guidance have helped Trey and I to grow into adulthood and our marriage. You are role models and friends. It’s such a wonderful feeling to not “dread” going to the in-laws or hanging out with your brother-in-law. The anticipation of our visits are always filled with joy and excitement.

To my sisters –

We are so very lucky, sisters. I’m sad to say that I often forget this. It is so wonderful to know there are two other women in this world who I can count on for anything and that I would do anything for. Just like with Mom and Dad, we, too, have become great friends. Being the oldest child, I always felt the role held a special responsibility. Most likely because Dad always told me, “Remember, they look up to you.” I get it now and I hope that I’ve made you proud. As an adult, however, I’ve learned that I look up to each of you as well. It’s a welcomed transition and just thinking about the adults each of you has become is making me grin ear to ear. Whether it’s dancing at each of our weddings to “Sisters” or sharing a glass of wine on mom and dad’s back porch, nothing can take away our special memories.

To my baby boy –

I don’t know even know you yet and love you more than anything in the world.  As we anticipate your arrival I often imagine what you’ll be like, who you’ll resemble and the person you’ll become. The greatest blessing I can hope for in this life is an opportunity to be here to watch it all unfold.

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I hope that you might use this as an opportunity to write your own last post and celebrate those things which are most important to you. Don’t worry about keywords, tags, or views. Just write.