There is no special occasion as hurtful as Valentine’s Day for highlighting that you no longer have your loved one and that you are now a widow.
They say grief brings people closer together. It’s not true – grief is isolating. It takes hold of your heart and doesn’t let go.
We need others, in ways that can’t really be explained. I think our broken hearts need to feel supported and cared for. Yes, there is something healing about being cared for and loved by others – knowing that if we no longer existed, we would be missed.
This poem is from the book “Chicken Soup for the Grieving Soul”. I want to pass it on to everyone that has had to say good-bye to a loved one.
I Wish You Enough
. I wish you enough sun to keep your attitude bright,
. I wish you enough rain to appreciate the sun more,
. I wish you enough happiness to keep your spirit alive,
. I wish you enough pain so that the smallest joy appears bigger,
. I wish you enough gain to satisfy your wanting,
. I wish you enough loss to appreciate all that you possess,
. I wish you enough “hellos” to get you through the final “good-bye”.
Did you ever say good-bye to someone knowing it would be forever? Recognizing that their time is short and so taking the time to tell them how much they meant to you. I love this poem because I think if they were here for Valentine’s Day our loved ones would say “I Wish You Enough”.
Bonnie
First Valentine’s without my Don, and he would have turned 58 tomorrow. First time in 30 years I’m not baking or ordering a special cake. His favorite food group was cake.
Mary Francis
Good Bonnie – we all need to be aware of what we want to do and not do what we think we should do because of what others think? There will be time for “cake” on your journey when your ready for it. Take care of yourself. Mary Francis
Cordelia
Valentine’s is,Especially hard on me. My Daddy Ship Almost Sank on the 13th & 14th of February 1945. Hexwas my BFF. I was his Caregiver. He died of Colon Cancer 3-4-2003.
My Loving Soulmate, My Husband, committed Public PTSD Suicide, 1-24-2008. He was My World.
I do Loving Memorial Dinner for them each Year. I’m Alone #EternalWidow
I just can’t be around people anymore.
Easier. No more answering their questions.
Amy
First Valentine’s Day without my husband of 25 years, James, who died very suddenly on November 14th. Feeling weepy today, but so thankful for my friends and family. Had a great lunch date with my parents and two sisters today. Really made all the difference.
Mary Francis
Sorry Amy. It’s hard and that’s the cold hard truth about the grieving journey. I hope you send some time today with family and friends because their support and love is the best medicine we can get when we are hurting this bad. Take care of yourself. Mary Francis