Growing up, I had a close bond with my parents. They were always there for me, attending every school event and cheering me on. But after my father’s passing, everything changed. My mother seemed different, quieter and more withdrawn. She wanted to spend more time with us, especially my daughter Cindy. However, something strange was happening when Cindy was alone with her at my mother’s house – she would cry and avoid her grandmother. It worried me, and I decided to find out why.

During our baking session, I asked Cindy why she cried when she was with grandma. She told me about a friend named William that grandma always mentioned but whom she never saw. William also seemed to be a scary man to Cindy. This revelation left me confused and concerned. I reassured Cindy that grandma wouldn’t be friends with bad guys, and we continued our baking.

The next day, I had a serious conversation with my mother about Cindy’s fear. She tearfully explained that she still felt my father’s presence and sometimes spoke to him as a way to cope with his death. She didn’t realize that Cindy was getting spooked by these interactions. My heart broke for my mother, and I knew we had to find a solution.

Over donuts and coffee, I suggested that my mother should explain everything to Cindy herself. It was important for Cindy to hear it from her to understand that there wasn’t an imaginary friend she couldn’t see. My mother agreed and committed to talking to Cindy.

In the following months, my mother started therapy to help her cope with her grief. It had a positive impact on her mood, and she even rediscovered her love for painting, something she and Cindy now enjoyed together. The therapy helped my mother find healthier ways to connect with my father without causing any confusion for Cindy.

Now, our family is on a path to healing. Cindy understands better and loves spending time with her grandmother again. And if my mother ever speaks to my father, she does it in a way that doesn’t unsettle Cindy. We learned that while it’s okay to talk to our loved ones who are no longer with us, it’s essential to find a balance that doesn’t disrupt our present relationships.

This experience taught us the importance of communication and seeking help when needed. We are grateful for the support we received, and it has brought us closer as a family.