Her video has resonated with many people who have lost their mothers and emphasized the importance of having tangible reminders of loved ones.
Losing a loved one is one of the most painful experiences anyone can go through. It can leave a void that seems impossible to fill and cause overwhelming emotions of grief, sadness and sometimes anger. Memories flood in, bringing both comfort and pain. Coping with the loss of someone you love is a deeply personal and individual journey, but it's important to remember that you are not alone.
TikTok user Courtney Lopez Gervais lost her mother at the age of 50, leaving her with a constant longing for more time together. The suddenness of the loss also meant that Gervais was not able to prepare for life without her mother, and her children would miss out on the experience of growing up with their grandmother. Gervais has shared five things she wishes she had asked her mother while she was still alive. It serves as a reminder to start having these conversations with your loved ones before it's too late.
Moreover, by having tangible reminders of your loved ones and knowing their wishes, you can cherish their memory long after they pass. Starting an ongoing dialogue with your parents can help you honor them and keep their legacy alive. These actions can have a significant impact on future generations, making it essential to consider them now. Inspired by this idea, Gervais encourages others to think ahead before it becomes too late. While Gervais' list specifically focuses on asking your mother certain things, it can be extended to any significant loved ones in your life or your child's life.
She says the first thing to ask is, "Your child or children's name in your mom's handwriting. Number two: A letter from your mom to your child or children telling them what she loves most about them and what she hopes for their future. Number Three: Your mom's favorite childhood memory. Number Four: Your mom's favorite memory from your childhood. Number Five: What she wants to leave to them and why it's important to her."
Her video made everyone emotional, especially those who have lost their mother. TikTok user @christinagrapp said, "After having lost both of my parents and I am only 48, my advice is to always SAVE ONE voicemail, from your parents, telling you they love you." Another person @1swtheart, "My mom is not here for me to ask." Courtney replied to them by saying, "I wish I had these things from mine. My hope is that those who do still have theirs will ask for these while they still have time."
User @sweet_domicile said, "I lost my mom at 50 too. She died within 3 weeks of her cancer. I wasn't married [and] didn't have kids yet. So much I wish I could ask her now." TikTok user @mrsrogersneighborhood commented, "I will try this but I think it might be too late. She's not responding like she used to."