Life is Too Short!
Living Alone and Dreaming of More!
Estimated reading time: 1 minute, 48 seconds
As I walked through the memorial garden, a cocker spaniel jumped over the plants and rubbed its wet fur onto my sweatpants. My neighbor Chris attempted to calm his dog down, but I reassured him it was no problem. We quickly caught up, as we hadn’t seen each other on our morning walks for weeks. As Chris departed, he asked if I still walked every day. I replied that I did, as life is too short to miss even one-morning walk.
As I completed my short lap around Hanson Park, I pondered how brief life is for all of us, particularly for me in my mid-seventies. Although I have lived alone since my wife’s passing two years ago, I cherish life and the people who make it enjoyable. Am I happy? Yes, I am. Do I smile enough? I believe I do.
I follow the fundamental principles we should have learned in kindergarten.
- Before you speak, listen.
- Before you write, think.
- Before you spend, earn.
- Before you pray, forgive.
- Before you hate, love.
- Before you quit, try.
- Before you die, live.
Is it sufficient? No, I sometimes yearn for more from life than I have, but I also acknowledge that I have more than others. During my last conversation with my wife, she said she did not want me to be alone. “You are a good man and an excellent husband,” she said. You will be happier with someone than alone.” Although I resisted, she was persistent. Now that I am alone, will I be content if I never find someone to love? Yes, but I know that Jan was right, and while I can live alone, I will always be less than entirely happy.
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I Live Alone, But I Am OK
Living Alone and Dreaming of More!
Estimated reading time: 1 minute, 48 seconds
Many have asked why I haven't started dating again since my Jan passed away 760 days ago. I've been improving my physical and mental health, expanding my social circle, and rebuilding my self-esteem. Being single and involved in my communities brings me contentment.
Grieving is a personal journey that teaches us about ourselves and how to handle loneliness. After Jan's passing, I realized I had tied my identity to our relationship. Despite my grief, I began to recognize my values and goals. I'm committed to personal growth without relying on quick solutions.
