The couple walking by were total strangers to me, so it was a bit awkward, and that’s how I began as I approached them.
“This is a bit awkward,” I said, holding out my cell phone.
“I was wondering if you would take my picture sitting up there on the rocks. See, normally my wife would be sitting there with me . . .” and with that my voice broke and the tears began.
Somehow, they understood.
They waited patiently as I sobbed out my story.
“We come here often for our anniversary. Today would have been our 51st. But I lost my wife to cancer just four months ago and . . ..”
“Certainly, I will take your picture,” the woman said, gently interrupting what was difficult for me to say.
Breakwaters are purposed to reduce the intensity of wave action.
But breakwaters don’t stop tears.
Breakwaters provide a safe harbor, a shelter from the force of powerful waves and storms.
With time, I will build mine.
As a widow for 20 yrs I find nothing stops the tears. Even now. I feel your pain. Talking about your beloved wife and sharing your stories is great therapy to helping put one foot in front of the other. Each day is a challenge for sure but you are making progress. Grief is the price we pay for love. I am sorry for your loss.
David,
Not only are you sitting on a rock, you are a rock. In time, I am confident you will be able to move forward even while never forgetting what you had in the past.
Your frequent sharing is, I am confident, a great help to many, perhaps most of whom you do not even know.
Blessed wishes, my friend.
Joe Boyle