If you could have dinner with one individual in the past, present, or future, who would it be and why?

My wife, Sarah, and I have dinner with my family at my grandmother’s house every Sunday, a tradition my family has maintained through good times and bad. However, one special person is missing from this tradition. My mother died suddenly when I was twelve. I would love to have her at Sunday dinner. Living without her advice for the past thirteen years has been difficult. I was recently married and her insights on parenting, marriage, and life would provide comfort as Sarah and I consider starting a family.

I would also like my mother to see the man I have become. Her passing was a tragedy and a terrible shock. Yet, in dealing with her loss, I learned about the importance of family and how to maintain faith and overcome adversity. My family rallied to support me, and I am especially grateful for my father’s example of prioritizing family and focusing on the future. Gradually, I began to share his mentality that life only gives you that which you can handle.

Experiencing the loss of my mother has contributed to who I am today – resilient and optimistic. These qualities have enhanced my life, allowing me to take calculated risks and support others in doing the same. Although I am grateful for the many blessings in my life, I know that something is missing. The ability to share Sunday dinner with my mother, and reflect on my life and my future with her, would help me feel at ease as I approach the next chapter of my life.