Widow's Story: Ruth H.

Today I'm able to post a story from a widow who is at 6 months in her journey. I've gotten to know her a bit over this past winter, and I know you'll like her, too. Please be sure to leave a comment, question or thank you for her, and visit her blog, which I've linked below. I hope you have a good week and please be sure to check back next Monday as I have some more good things in store for you.
Ruth lives in Canada and enjoys the various bird migrations every spring and fall. The picture of the bird flying over water was used at Jake's funeral. Isn't it beautiful? More wonderful bird and nature photos are on her blog.

♥ ferree

My story begins about 1970. I had known Jake before that, but wanted nothing to do with him. God created a change in me and I fell madly in love with this man. We were married on June 9,1972. Life was good and when we were blessed with a healthy baby boy it was even better. We had many wonderful years living on an acreage in the country, raising our son and loving each other.

In the spring of 1992 we moved to a simple home in town, but the real changes in our life began in the summer of 2010. I had noticed that Jake was not quite himself, but attributed this to his getting older. He had no interest in life and all the things he used to enjoy. His appetite dwindled and my concern grew, but still he claimed that all was well.

One day in July I was having my devotions and came upon this verse:

When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. (Isaiah 42:2)

I did not want to hear what God was telling me in this verse. I knew that tough times were ahead, but little did I know just how difficult it would get.

Copyright 2010 by Ruth Hiebert

Jake grew more and more tired, but said he had no pain and did not want to see a doctor. On September 18, he had no choice but to visit emergency. He had not slept all night and was constantly having hiccups and burping; something was not right.

By the following day we were told that he had a large mass on the pancreas and there was nothing they could do but to keep him comfortable. Cancer had taken over his body and life as we had known it changed forever. I now knew that I needed to become a care-giver to the man who meant the world to me. Seven-and-a-half short weeks later, on November 10,2011, after telling me he loved me, Jake slipped into eternity. His passing was so gentle and peaceful . . . I could not have wished anything more for him.

Jake's move to glory meant my first steps into widowhood. At first it seemed I was on auto pilot, just doing what needed to be done.After the Memorial service and everyone went back to their own lives, my lonely times began.

Many a day I would give my right arm just to have Jake with me again. I know that God is always with me and were it not for His strength I would not be able to go on.

My boat has been very rocky at times, but true to God's word, the rivers have not swept over me. Today I praise God for His faithfulness. I move on with my life,trying to find a new normal. At times I think I am finding it, but at other times it seems very distant.

It has been almost six months since Jake passed away. It seems a lot longer than that, but I've made it this far and by God's grace I will make it further.

Copyright 2010 by Ruth Hiebert

Jake and I had shared the love of nature and photography. We spent many wonderful hours pursuing our hobby, a hobby he asked me to continue with. I still enjoy photography even though it is very different doing it alone. As I look through the camera lens I see the marvels of God's creation and praise Him for giving me the ability to do this.

Thank you for sharing your story with us, Ruth. It's hard, but your quiet confidence in God helps us all--it's as beautiful as your photography. I hope everyone will visit you at Ruth's Photo Blog and leave an encouraging comment for you. love, Ferree