Lately, I have been thinking a lot about missed opportunities. I guess this is what happens when someone who is important to you dies. All of these people, these out-of-touch relatives, come out of the woodwork. You suddenly realize that 20 years have passed, and it took someone dying to reconnect.

Who are you not seeing because of your ex?

During my marriage, I never got to know an entire side of my husband’s family. A whole bunch of amazing female cousins that could have enriched our life.  These people showed up at my ex-mother-in-law’s funeral and I realized what a missed opportunity this was.

My son was deprived of so many first cousin relationships because of my divorce. It was great to see him reconnect with his cousins during the mourning period. He needs his extended family and the divorce and other family drama got in the way.

This ain’t no dress rehearsal

Life is abundant with opportunities to experience, connect, and evolve. A willingness to feel all of the feelings – including rejection, disappointment, and failure is the currency you need to bravely seize these opportunities. Leave no stone unturned!

Any missed opportunities from historical family drama can sometimes be rectified. Stay curious and compassionate with others and with yourself to re-build these connections. I think my mother-in-law would be happy to have seen these reconnections.