Alone and Alive

It has been almost ten years since I became a widow. Those years have bolted by in a haze of grief and recovery, activity and stillness, stagnation and growth. And here I stand, almost at the ten year mark, faced with yet another tangible reminder of my life with my wonderful husband and his complete lack of organizational skills.

I spent my Easter weekend cleaning out a large storage closet (with time out for Easter services). As I went through the boxes and bags containing papers dating back as far as two decades, I found myself filled with mixed emotions. The receipts, church papers, paid bills, and bank statements were a reminder of my “normal life” that is gone forever. As I threw out the trash of many years (carefully keeping the documents I need) I felt a sense of being in control of my life.

I once again had an affirmation that though I am alone, I am very much alive and in control of my “new normal” life. Unfortunately, I haven’t finished the closet yet, but I will. Who knows what memories I may uncover in those boxes?

My new book, Alone and Alive, A practical guide for dealing with the death of your husband, is due to be published May 31, 2011. It can be pre-ordered through barnesandnoble.com.

Janet