Learning To Cope (Article I posted on Gather)

[tinkyb]

Most of my friends and family treat me with special caution. "How are you?" They ask with hesitant smiles. "Fine, I'm fine." is always my reply, because what am I supposed to do, tell them the truth? Then they quickly exhale with relief and quickly change the subject. I can't really blame them: They'd known my father well, and his death must have

Comments

[mhamel608]

Katie, I don't think I can come close to understanding the total loss of a parent or this feeling of regret that you have for the unfinished development of your relationship. I can however be there for when you ask questions about yourself or your life. I can be there for when you feel sad or angry. I do know how it feels to feel this rejection due to a father figure. Ive been through 2 of them and my track record isnt so good. I had a VERY difficult teenage years when I felt utterly abandoned by the 2nd one. Of course it took me 5 years to cope with it I may have some helpful advice for certain feelings that you may be having. All you have to do is ask. I am always there for you.