It's been 17 days since Cheryl died. The funerals were both beautifully done. The care and concern I've received from family and friends has been amazing. I am thankful for all the kind words from every one that I have encountered in this two and a half weeks.
Some folks probably don't know what to say at a time like this and that's okay. I, we, my family, community and church have suffered a loss but we can not allow ourselves to dwell in the depths of despair. I understand that death and loss are also a part of life.
I am a better person for having known Cheryl and being married to her for 32 years. Cancer didn't defeat Cheryl, it just won out over her body. Her soul is eternally secure with the Lord.
Those of us that are left behind will go on living. We'll have a hole in our hearts where a bubbly 4' 10 1/2" lady used to be but we'll go on living.
I pray that the rest of my life will be as happy as the years we had together. I'm choosing to reach for joy instead of drowning in sorrow. I encourage you all to do the same.
Farewell my sweet lady, thanks for thirty-two good years of marriage.
Well said!
ReplyDeleteJud, I have been praying for you and Cheryl during these past 18 months, but you have been such an inspiration to me. Things have been really difficult for me after losing my mother, my daughter, and my niece all in less than two years; however, I have found new strength and peace by following you on this journey. Yes, you have encouraged me and I will no longer drown in sorrow, but reach for joy and continue to celebrate life. I thank you so much for sharing!
ReplyDeleteShe was so special and has for sure left a gap but left it filled with wonderful memories and love. What a blessing to have known her. :)
ReplyDeleteRachel P.
Well said, Jud. It basically comes down to making a choice. I found this poem shared by another widow about her husband to be true and interesting.
ReplyDeleteYou can shed tears that he is gone,
or you can smile because he has lived.
You can close your eyes and pray that he'll come back,
or you can open your eyes and see all he's left.
Your heart can be empty because you can't see him,
or you can be full of the love you shared.
You can turn your back on tomorrow and live yesterday,
or you can be happy for tomorrow because of yesterday.
You can remember him only that he is gone,
or you can cherish his memory and let it live on.
You can cry and close your mind,
be empty and turn your back,
or you can do what he'd want:
Smile,open your eyes,love and go on.
I can say without any doubt that our lives have been better because Sam and Cheryl were a part of them. I thank God for them both. Continue to take care.