Mother's Day and Father's Day for many of us consists of a phone call, a card or a gift, maybe a special dinner out or a cake. We often take these days for granted or just a day to say a quick thanks to our parents. It's really easy to gloss over these holidays without really stopping to think. As one of my close friends just dealt with her first Mother's Day without her mom, it made me really think about these holidays from the perspective of people dealing with the loss of a parent.

I can't imagine the grief that you go through waking up and knowing you can't talk to your parent. I can't begin to fathom that kind of absolute loss. If I could give my mom or dad to you to borrow for a day so you wouldn't feel their missing presence so much, I would, but I know it doesn't work that way. I'm sorry you have to deal with all the sweet social media posts and the flowers and the gifts in the stores without them. I know it's bitter sweet for you, while it's just another holiday for me. I don't how you go through these days without just crying the whole day and feeling miserable and maybe you do, but I promise, no one thinks any less of you for crying. We would be doing exactly the same thing in your position.

It terrifies me to think that one day I will wake up and not have one of my parents there with me. That is something I can't even picture. I never consider that it could happen to me. I just assume next year will be the same as every other year, but I know that's not a guarantee. We go to bed every night just assuming we'll wake up the next morning, but every day people don't. I guess that's why everyone says don't go to bed angry because maybe the next morning that person won't wake up beside you.

I know that's sad and depressing to think about around such nice, happy days, but I don't want to take Mother's Day or Father's Day for granted again. It isn't just a card or a phone call, it's about taking time to tell someone you genuinely care for them and that they are an important part of your life while you still have the chance to.

Don't forget the people that can't give their mom a kiss on Mother's Day and can't give their dad yet another tie on Father's Day. Say a prayer for them, send them good vibes, take a moment of silence, whatever is your personal preference, take a minute out of your celebration to think of someone else. Someone that could be having a hard day. And, of course, don't forget to turn around and appreciate what you have in your life while you still can.