Life’s Disappointments
After losing our spouse, we live experience one of life’s biggest disappointments. It is a moment where we cannot articulate our emotions without tears racing down our face. At times it feels like we have just placed a ten-pound weight on our chest. The disappointment of losing our spouse, having to figure out how to handle life, and creating a new norm is heartbreaking. Many of our family and friends don’t understand that who we were before has now drastically changed. Life has handed us the unexpected. Although we repeat the vows and end them with “till death do us part,” we are never really prepared when it happens. We are not ready for finalizing the funeral plans for our spouse. It never entered our hearts that we would watch our children grow up without sharing those moments together. Our plan was never to crawl into bed only to feel an empty space on the other side. Facing these daunting and disappointing times sends us into a dark place where we hide behind the curtain of life.
Moving from Behind the Curtain
However, once we start peer from behind the curtain of disappointments, we will begin to see that those disappointing times can help us move forward. With every disappointment, we are faced with two options: 1.) a time when we reflect and move forward or 2.) a time when we retract and stand still. It is our choice. I encourage each of you to move forward, even when the disappointments seem overwhelming. Every day you awake is another day for a new career opportunity, time with family and friends, or a moment to reflect on the love you shared with your spouse. Sure, you may not be on top of the world, but you have a chance to take one step in that direction.
Unexpected moments happen in our lives. Nevertheless, through those moments we learn valuable lessons, gain wisdom, and learn to love again. Walk through the disappointments of life. As you walk, remember that you are a treasure more than gold. Your life matters to family, friends, and those whose life you will touch along the way.
Keep moving forward because giving up is not an option!