RoslynReynolds.com

A String of Beads

Posted On Wednesday, March 24th, 2010

Under: Death of a loved one, Friends, Grieving, Healing after Loss, Healing from grief, Help for Widows, Losing a Spouse, Personal Care while Grieving, Service, The Healing Power of Service

I saw it as I passed the piano—the string of white beads she had borrowed to wear to church yesterday, and my heart ached.

I just drove her to the airport an hour ago to catch her plane back to Washington, DC, and now there is a tangible absence in our home.

It seems like ever since Marty died, the children and I are a little more tender about absence from each other. We crave togetherness, and we dislike separation.

Maybe it is because we have felt the pain of loss, and we want to cherish every moment together possible. Shakespeare’s Juliet says, “Parting is such sweet sorrow.” I have yet to find the sweetness there.

When those who live away from home come visit, their presence lights up our home, and gives us all something more to smile about.

When they leave, we feel like a light has gone out and our hearts are heavy. We have to start in on a project, put in some cheerful music, or, on difficult days, curl up in the chair with a warm blanket and retreat into a great book for awhile to lessen the hurt.

Today, I can tell I need to look outside myself, beyond the pain in my heart, and seek to do something that will brighten someone else’s day.

I’m going to get dressed, put on fresh makeup, and go visit someone. Maybe I’ll even wear those beads.

Hoping for your healing,

Roslyn

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