A Widow for a Week

I've been a widow for a week. My marriage bed is empty. I now hug his pillow. The house isn't as dirty. Laundry is less. I've lost two pounds because meat and potatoes aren't on my menu. The remote is in my hands. The toilet seat is down. My heart aches for the man I've shared life with for 40 years.

I'm not alone. Many women live through the reality of the death of a spouse. For those going through the difficult and lonely days of widowhood, I recommend my dear friend Ferree Hardy's blog http://www.WidowsChristianPlace.com. Ferree survived the early and sudden death of her husband. Her heart's passion is to help others through the most difficult times of their lives.

My widowhood ends tomorrow as Dan returns from a Montana fly-fishing trip with our son--a trip they dreamed about for years. I'll welcome my man home, sleep in his arms, realize how precious is the smell of his dirty laundry, cook some meat and potatoes, and hand him the remote. Each day with him is a gift to treasure for we never know when that gift may be taken away.

I'm thankful for people like Ferree who knows suffering and uses her pain to help others and glorify God. If you aren't a widow, I suspect you know a widow. Please bless her by directing her to Ferree's blog. http://www.WidowsChristianPlace.com.

May we be a splash of serenity to our husbands each day of their lives,

Elaine