What's Your Love Story?

Even the saddest things can become, once we have made peace with them, a source of wisdom and strength for the journey that still lies ahead.

(Frederick Buechner, from the book "A Grace Disguised," by Jerry Sittser, pg. 92)

Valentine's Day is just around the corner. Would you like to share some memories? Your words can become wisdom and strength for the journey so many others have ahead of them. . . 

When I have some widow friends over for the afternoon next week we'll do the same thing, only in-person. I wish you could come too! 
Click here for the original post, You'll see what I mean and you'll just love hearing other's brief stories.

Here are the questions I'll use with my group. They'll choose one or two favorites to talk about. (Feel free to copy for your group!) For now though, I'd love to hear about your answers. 
*What's your love story?*

• When did you and your husband first meet?
• Where did you go for your first date?
• At what moment did you "know" you wanted to spend the rest of your life with him? 
• Did you fall in love or gradually grow in love? 
• How did he propose? Did you say "yes" right away?
• How long were you married?

Sometimes though, reminiscing can be difficult. On some days memories are too painful--and that's nothing to be ashamed of--they just are. Don't worry about it. Don't force yourself to remember, and don't "command" yourself to never remember again. There will come a time down the road they won't sting so much and will prove helpful and healing. Be patient.

For some people there are times when it's impossible to recall any good memories. This is frustrating and disconcerting! You know your life wasn't that bad; you know there were good times but you just don't remember them and it's a guilty and crazy feeling all rolled into one. I.Have.Been.There.

I was re-assured a little bit by hearing that it's a part of grief. People aren't perfect so when we are grieving we grieve over the whole person we miss so much--the good and the not-so-good, happy and not-so-happy, and what was and what-could-have-been. For me, I could not recall even one nice thing my dear husband ever did for me. I knew there were many things but my brain was just empty!

I finally prayed about it and asked God for some relief. A few days later I asked one of my daughters to bring me a little glass of water. When I took the glass in my hand it was like a key unlocked a flood of memories starting with the many times Bruce had also given me a glass of water. It was a gracious relief and unburdening. I will be praying that God will do the same for those of you who need that too.

*Please go ahead and post your memories in a comment at the bottom of the blog today or email them to me at wcplace@gmail.com
If I get enough I'll post them here for everyone to love and enjoy during the week of Valentine's Day. ❤