Though I may not be in L.A., I am no stranger to loss. And though I may not always be able to convey it, my heart goes out to all of you in the Los Angeles community as the last few weeks have been more than difficult as you lose many a friend.  John Cougar is the only one I had the pleasure of meeting personally.  He sold me my first collar.  He was quiet and polite.  I also had the opportunity to share a dance with him at SWLC during the Dance of the Souls- a very touching moment in my life.

Times like these are never easy.  It is hard to lose someone even when we have had time to prepare.  It is that much harder when they have been ripped from our lives because of tragedy.  We, that are left behind, are the ones left with heavy hearts as we grieve.  More times than not, we are shaken and question why.  Sometimes we are so overwhelmed, it feels like we are drowning in our own tears.  And as much as I wish I could say it will all be better tomorrow, I can’t.  Our healing is a process, and over time the pangs of heart will cease- and for each person- that time will be different.

What I can do, is maybe offer a little bit of hope and peace.  This life is but a temporary one.  Our bodies are merely vessels for our time on this planet.  From the moment we are born, we are dying, as are physical selves are not meant to live forever.  But our spirit and memories live and last forever in the hearts of our loved ones.  I am one who believes when we die, are souls leave us and rejoin those that have went before us.  I also believe that many times those people in our lives have remained with us from previous lifetimes.

For now, cling onto those memories of times and joy shared together, especially the ones that make you smile and laugh.  Also, do not be afraid to cry.  Both laughter and tears are very healing.  Reach out to each other, and be each other’s support.  Give a hug.  Receive a hug.  Allow yourself to feel and express all of your emotions- suppressing them doesn’t necessarily make you stronger, it just leaves them to resurface at a time when you least expect it.  Surround yourself with friends and loved ones and truly CELEBRATE life- the life of the one we lost, and the appreciation of the life we still have to live.  And most importantly remember, even though we say goodbye, goodbye is not forever- it is just until I meet you in the next place.

With Heartfelt Condolences,

Elle