"What the death of my husband taught me"

2024 Author: Malcolm Clapton | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-17 03:44

Facebook CEO Sherrill Sandberg spoke to Berkeley alumni about how she survived the loss of her husband and learned to appreciate what she has.

Speaking to alumni at Berkeley, Sherrill talked about how to withstand ordeals. Her husband, Silicon Valley businessman David Goldberg, died last May. While on family vacation in Mexico, he suffered a head injury and died in hospital.

David's death changed me a lot. I learned what the bitterness of loss is. But I also realized that when life pulls you to the bottom, you can push off, swim to the surface and breathe again. I share this with you in the hope that today, enjoying life, you will be able to understand what I was able to realize only with the help of death.

Sheryl Sandberg

Everyone has minor problems from time to time. But Sandberg's speech can prepare you for more challenging trials.

I realize I’ve gotten rid of the pain. At first I was grateful for every breath in and out, for life in general. I used to celebrate my birthday every five years and sometimes go to my friends' birthdays. Now I do not miss a single holiday.

I used to fall asleep worrying about my mistakes during the day. Now I try to concentrate on the joyful moments.

The irony is that the loss of my husband made me feel deeply grateful for the kindness of my friends, for the love of my family, for the laughter of my children. I hope you can find something to be grateful for. And not only on good days like today, but also on tough times when you really need it.

Sheryl Sandberg

Here is a recording of Sheryl Sandberg's very emotional and inspiring performance: