Welcome. I understand the profound loss you’ve experienced. My heart goes out to you as you navigate the journey of grief following the loss of your life partner. Please know, you are not alone. This community is here to support you in finding hope and building a meaningful future.
Twelve years ago, in February 2013, I lost my beloved Bryan. Now, in March 2025, I stand before you, a widow who has remarried and rebuilt her life. This journey has been undeniably challenging, yet it has also been a period of profound personal growth.
In the early days of grief, it’s natural to feel as though your world has ended, that your best days are behind you, and that peace and contentment are unattainable. You may feel vulnerable and unsafe. I understand these feelings intimately. At 45, I believed I was too old to find happiness again, that creating a meaningful life was beyond my reach.
Bryan’s absence left a vast void. However, over time, I discovered that life can evolve and transform in unexpected ways. The narrative we create about our loss changes as we move through grief. I share my story not as a benchmark, but as a testament to what is possible. Your journey is unique, and your timeline is your own.
Grief is a deeply personal experience. There is no right or wrong way to navigate it. My aim is to offer hope, to show you that the stories you tell yourself now are not permanent. Change is inevitable, and while it can be daunting, embracing it can be empowering.
In the initial stages, grief can feel overwhelming. It dominates your thoughts and actions. But as you progress, you will reclaim your power and steer your own course. Accepting your reality and allowing natural evolution are key to this process.
Initially, your lost loved one is present in every thought, every moment. Over time, while they remain in your heart, their presence shifts. They become a cherished memory, not a constant, consuming thought. This transition can feel unsettling, even guilt-inducing, but it is a natural part of healing.
I still experience moments of sadness, particularly on significant days. However, the way I miss Bryan has transformed. It is no longer a raw, visceral pain, but a gentle, manageable presence. There are also days when I feel at peace, when I am fully present in my new life.
This new life includes my marriage to Kevin, and while I cherish this relationship, I believe love is infinite. Loving again does not diminish the love I have for Bryan. We have the capacity to love deeply and expansively.
My life has evolved significantly. I have discovered new passions and a deeper understanding of myself. Through self-reflection and personal growth, I have found confidence and contentment. While I am not perfect, I am self-aware and committed to ongoing evolution.
The question of where Bryan would fit in my current life is complex. It reflects the profound changes that occur after loss. However, I have made peace with this. I know he would want my kids and me to be happy.
My greatest challenge is witnessing my kids navigate life without their father. Their loss is a source of deep sorrow. I strive to support them, but I cannot fill the void he left. We are a strong team, but his absence is deeply felt.
The world has changed dramatically since Bryan’s passing. These changes have created a sense of distance, a feeling that our past life is a separate chapter. I have learned to embrace this evolution, focusing on the present and future.
Grief has become a companion, a part of my journey. I have learned to sit with discomfort, to understand and navigate my emotions. While there are still difficult days, I have found strength and resilience.
I am grateful for the lessons I have learned through grief. It has deepened my understanding of myself and life. If you are in the early stages of grief, know that these insights may feel distant, but they are possible.
Your loved one lives on in you, shaping your values and beliefs. You are capable of transforming pain into love and remembrance. This journey requires work, but it leads to healing and strength.
You have the power to choose how you respond to your loss. Do not settle for a life defined by pain. Seek out what brings you joy and fulfillment. Dream big, face your fears, and cherish the moments with loved ones.
Stay present, focus on the now, and find moments of joy. Invest in yourself, seek support, and step outside your comfort zone. You will discover new strengths and possibilities.
Choose life, choose growth, and open your heart to new opportunities. Your love is eternal, and you can create a beautiful, meaningful life. Remember, you are not alone, and you are capable of extraordinary resilience and joy.
Please share this message with others who may benefit. Your support and engagement help us reach those who need it most. If you are a widow and would like some support, join my free group at Wonderful Widowed Women – if you’d like some personal 1 on 1 coaching, reach out to me about my special discounts for widows 💜
