Nudged: Clear out voicemail messages

This is a tender one for me. Sure, it started out being part of decluttering efforts, to clear space. But when I looked at what has been living in my inbox long-term, I found “last” messages from my uncle, who passed away two years ago, and my aunt, who passed last December. Both were sudden, and I have yet to fully grieve their losses.

It’s time to let go.

What will you be clearing this week?

What Happened: Now I wish I’d counted how many messages were in there, so I could quantify the difference. I deleted a lot! Every day, whenever I had a few minutes to spare–like while I was waiting in line or transitioning between work projects–I’d listen and delete, listen and delete. Much of what I removed was old news or simply checking-in calls: “Got your message! Happy to hear all is well! Will try you again later.” and “Miss you! Let’s chat soon!”

I worked up my courage during the week to be able to be fully present for the tender messages, then set aside time to listen quietly and allow myself to take them in–and possibly have a good crying session after.

My first discovery was I had not saved a last message from my aunt. I doubt it was anything significant, but gosh, I longed to hear her voice one last time. And I still can, in my head, in my heart. I feel her presence with me, and I’m so grateful for this.

I had two remaining messages from my uncle. In the second-to-last, he greeted me with the nickname only he called me. I saved that message. I’m saving it as long as I can.

No tears, no regrets.

The Ah-Hahs: I had very special relationships with these two people, and I’ll always be grateful for the time that we had together. I think back to some of my older relatives and friends, previous generations, who bade farewell to loved ones knowing they’d never see them again, never hear their voices again. How lucky am I that I live in the 21st century and have been given the gifts of photos and voicemail messages on my handheld phone!

So, gratitude, certainly, as I wrap up this week’s Nudge.

And a pat on the back for my momentum in decluttering.

And a wink as I acknowledge that while I was clearing out old messages, I was also making a list of people I want to call again. This weekend I plan on reaching out–and very likely refilling any open space in their inboxes. 🙂