One of the most difficult aspects of living abroad is being away from family and friends. By making the choice to live in Mexico, we have distanced ourselves from those we love. It is a difficult decision; one we contemplate often. We miss so many monumental celebrations; birthdays, weddings, births. And, we are absent when our friends and families need us the most; deaths, illnesses, and times of sorrow.
This past weekend, I proudly watched my husband deliver the service for his recently deceased grandfather and uncle; having unexpectedly died within a week of each other. Sammy stepped into the role after receiving the news that his mother would not be able to attend her own father’s (and brother's) funeral due to an emergency surgical procedure my father-in-law had to undergo. A rare juncture of being physically present to support our loved ones during difficult times dissipated some of the feelings of guilt. Guilt of not living near our families. Although we are adults, the absence of my in-laws demanded a new found level of maturity; greeting and attending to guests and organizing the logistics that had been requested. Rather than sitting back in our familiar roles of limited responsibility.
This past weekend, I proudly watched my husband deliver the service for his recently deceased grandfather and uncle; having unexpectedly died within a week of each other. Sammy stepped into the role after receiving the news that his mother would not be able to attend her own father’s (and brother's) funeral due to an emergency surgical procedure my father-in-law had to undergo. A rare juncture of being physically present to support our loved ones during difficult times dissipated some of the feelings of guilt. Guilt of not living near our families. Although we are adults, the absence of my in-laws demanded a new found level of maturity; greeting and attending to guests and organizing the logistics that had been requested. Rather than sitting back in our familiar roles of limited responsibility.
Auntie Jen & Abbie
We return to Mexico tomorrow; knowing we will be a short plane ride away from our families, if we are needed. Excited by the prospect of buying our first house; but again, so far away. Trying to do what is right for us. Following our wildest dreams. Living our lives to the fullest. Expelling any feelings that don't support what is healthy for us. But in the back of our minds, knowing there will be a time our family or friends need us to be physically present.
Confident that when that time comes, we will be by their side.
Confident that when that time comes, we will be by their side.
The Uber Crew
