I went to my home church on Sunday when I was up in the mountains. I felt compelled to stay for both services even though I didn’t know that many at the second service. When I feel compelled, I listen. Our bulletin had a few special prayer requests…one of which was for the family of a 59 year old man who died suddenly of a heart attack. His wife was at the second service. I made it a point to wait on the sidelines till she was finished greeting everyone. I walked up to her and introduced myself and told her about losing Mr. Virgo. God bless her sweet heart. She was really doing well. She has great faith and she seems quite strong. She has family and friends and the church for support. My heart aches for her as I remember the early weeks of my journey.

When I look back, even I can’t believe some of the things I did…like buying my first camper just two weeks after he died. And traveling alone for three months…some of which was in the wilderness of Colorado. I’m so happy she has joined us here, no matter how far back she lurks in the background. Because I have to tell ya…this platform has helped me more than just about anything else since losing Mr. Virgo. Just being able to express my thoughts and feelings in a nonjudgmental forum has helped me heal and grow. And your responses have been an enormous sense of comfort to me.

So, for the sake of the new widow whose loss is so fresh, what words of wisdom and comfort would you offer her? What do you wish you would have known those first few weeks that no one told you? Let’s welcome those who have just joined us and give them a group hug.

❤

“Like one who takes away a garment on a cold day, or like vinegar poured on a wound, is one who sings songs to a heavy heart.”

Proverbs 25:20