My grandfather passed away in the early hours of the morning yesterday. Obviously, I am extremely sad. But at the same time, when sadness arises is when I gravitate toward my yoga practice and my yoga spirituality the most.
Matter is finite; it has a shelf life. But every religion, philosophy, spirituality and even some branches of science claim that energy, or spirit, is infinite. Even the First Law of Thermodynamics states: “Energy can neither be created nor destroyed, it can only be converted from one form to another.”
I do not feel my grandfather is gone for good. I believe his spirit is still pressing on somewhere in the infinite. Moreover, I believe his memories will live on as long as his family is here to remember him.
What is most important for me to convey is that every day is a gift, not a guarantee. I highly encourage everyone to seize every moment of every day to the best of your ability. We have to enjoy every moment, because we never know when something special is going to end. This applies not only to loved ones, but also to relationships, working environments, and friendships.
Life is precious. Please consider appreciating every moment. When you enjoy the here and the now, and realize that nothing is permanent, it makes the passing of things easier to deal with. You will always have your memories, and you will always have a deep emotional connection to the person, people, or event.
Instead of being sad that something ends, be grateful you were able to experience it at all.
I love you, Gramps, and I will always remember you and appreciate the time we had together!
~Amber
Empowerment Yoga with Amber Warren 
Comments on: "Celebrate Life" (9)
Amber, I’m so sorry to hear of your Gramps passing. May you take comfort in sweet memories of the time & love you shared. Deepest sympathy & warmest regards,
Kelli
Thank you Kelli. ❤
[…] concept of Isharapranidhana is meant to be comforting in times of need (see Celebrate Life), and it is meant to deepen our sense of self. By surrendering to that which is, and not trying to […]
Very sorry to hear about your grandfather passing. it’s a difficult thing to cope with, i know, but you seem to be on the right track. stay strong and remember him well. also grieving is an essential part of dealing with loss
[…] fullest. Appreciate and enjoy all that life has to offer. Before I close, just remember something I have said before: if something special in your life comes to an end, do not be sad it is over. Instead, be very […]
[…] fullest. Appreciate and enjoy all that life has to offer. Before I close, just remember something I have said before: if something special in your life comes to an end, do not be sad it is over. Instead, be very […]
[…] done in a row. This particular Yoga Mala was a fundraiser I did for lung cancer research. My grandfather died in August of lung cancer. Yogis call a fundraising Yoga Mala a Yogathon, like a […]
[…] a series of events occurred that made me realize it was time to move back to Richmond, Virginia. My grandfather died, my baby cousin was diagnosed with a rare condition, and my aunt has been very sick with […]
[…] Free to Breathe Yogathon that takes place 4 weeks from today (specific details below). Last year, I lost my grandfather to lung cancer just two short months after he was […]