Hello Friends! Many years ago, the boss of the printing company I was working for told me about "The Floating Opera." I can't recall the entire description, but it amounted to this: some people will stay in your life always, others will pass by on a "Floating Opera." As a Zen Buddhist, I am trained not to attach- to remain conscious of the impermanence of all things, including our relationships- however much we value them. I have also come to believe that God brings some people into my life, and takes others away- and to accept that and trust it- and not try force the issue. To let go.

The only relationships I make exception to are my children. Although my son has chosen to abandon me, I would welcome him back with an open heart if he ever changes his mind.  As you have gone through the recent rift with my daughter- not yet resolved- you know how deeply my love for her goes.

But anyone else- I have my boundaries up. I ended the violent, abusive relationships with all of my crazy lovers and have avoided such dangerous liasons for the past 13 years. 

I have lost so many friends in the past 10 years- to health issues, mostly to drug and alcohol overdoses. Eventually, you learn not to cling. I have learned to love fully in the moment- but not to expect a relationship to last forever. I live in a senior community where so many have died in the past four years since I have been here- and I watch as people fade day by day.

In Buddhism we have a daily Practice of accepting death, so that we are not thown off course when it occurs- to ourself- to our loved ones. An excellent source of insight is provided by Alan Wattts on You Tube.