• I have learned that some people actually mean it when they say “If you need anything at all, don’t hesitate to call” but most do not.
• I’ve learned that it is not productive to beat myself up over things I should have said but didn’t, or things I should not have said but did, or things I should or should not have done during the course of my marriage. That my husband knew I loved him and the negative things from the past were the same sorts of things all couple go through. What matters is that we loved each other and both knew it.
• I’ve learned that with God’s help, I can get through just about anything. If I can survive the death of my spouse and become even stronger, then I can conquer pretty much anything.
• I’ve learned not to listen to the naysayers who try to convince me that I’m not cut out for something I want to pursue. There are those that have tried to convince me I’ll never be able to finish something I’m trying to finish or be good at something I want to learn and be good at. I should only listen to those who believe in me.
• I’ve learned not to let the stupid comments people say bother me too much. Most people are just trying to say SOMETHING they think lets me know they know how I feel. No, their dog’s recent death is not QUITE the same thing but they meant well. Usually.
• I’ve learned that some people would rather let a long-time friendship go rather than deal with something unpleasant. Those friends that never bothered to call or send a card or just find a way to let me know they care are not really friends worth keeping anyway.
• I have learned that the soul never dies. Those we have loved and have passed on are always going to be close by and keeping an eye on us.
• I have learned that cats and dogs can be really great company.
• I’ve learned that I can learn to do just about anything if I really put my mind to it. I’m not a helpless little girl. My husband taught me so much and it’s helping me get things done everyday.
• I've learned that I can grieve in my own way and at my own pace and no one else can tell me I'm "doing it wrong." I don't owe anyone an explanation.
• I’ve learned that every Winter has its Spring. No matter how cold and lonely it may be right now, Spring is around the corner and will come eventually.
