Reflecting on What Truly Matters After Losing Loved Ones

Writer reflects on the importance of core values and cherishing relationships after recent losses.

Mar. 19, 2026 at 3:07am

In the past three months, the author has lost three important people in their life - their editor Jerry, their best friend's mother Sandra, and their great Aunt Donna. These losses have made the author stop and reflect on what truly matters in life, including the importance of being intentional, authentic, and appreciative of the people and relationships in their life.

Why it matters

This story highlights how the loss of loved ones can be a wake-up call to re-evaluate one's priorities and focus on what's truly important, like maintaining strong relationships, embodying core values, and being present in the moment. It's a relatable experience many readers may have gone through themselves.

The details

The author describes the impact of losing their editor Jerry, who was a key contributor to their local community newspaper, their best friend's mother Sandra who was like a second mom, and their great Aunt Donna who was a devoted prayer warrior. The author expresses regret over not spending more time with these individuals and appreciating them more while they were alive. This has led the author to want to be more intentional about living according to their core values of integrity, compassion, authenticity, and gratitude.

  • In the past three months, the author lost three valuable people in their life.
  • Two weeks after Jerry passed, the author's best friend lost her mother Sandra.
  • The author lost their great Aunt Donna this last week.

The players

Jerry

The author's editor who was a key contributor to their local community newspaper and a cornerstone of the local community.

Sandra

The author's best friend and sister-in-law, who lost her mother.

Aunt Donna

The author's great aunt, who was a devoted prayer warrior and family-oriented woman of God.

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The takeaway

This story serves as a powerful reminder to cherish our loved ones, live according to our core values, and make the most of the time we have. It encourages readers to reflect on what truly matters in their own lives and to be more intentional about nurturing meaningful relationships and embodying the qualities that will leave a lasting positive impact.