Loss & Transformative Life 

Mom became a living memorial to my Dad. There were trips and other adventures they planned to do together. So I stepped in and took Mom places where she and Dad planned to travel.  We enjoyed dinners in fancy restaurants and other events. Periodically we’d meet a recent widow who would share the sorrow over recent passing of their spouse. Mom would cry harder than they would. Perhaps even emptying nearly half of a tissue box.  Eventually the relatively ‘new’ widow would comfort Mom who mourned Dad for 26-years (!) until she passed in 2012. Dad was integral to Mom’s identity. She lost her best friend, security, intimacy and her confidence. Theirs was truly a beautiful love story rooted in traditional marriages of the 1940s. Many of the beliefs and practices surrounding matrimony from that era have since faded as society has evolved. Sadly Mom did not and became reclusive, absent from friends, eventually withdrawing from society.

Rachet forward to a few years ago when my friend and golf buddy of 25-years died unexpectantly. His widow created an informal club of 4-widowed women. They hang out, go the movies, and enjoy myriad adventures. I am honored to be among her few male friends. She told me “I’ve had the love of my life but sometimes I miss male companionship”. Every episode of Loss & Transformative Life will share resources and uplifting stories from widows who have experienced similar challenges, offering empathy and insights into the journey through loss.

Since grief does not follow a linear path, we’re committed to providing a nurturing environment filled with hope, kindness and understanding as listeners rebuild and transform their lives. Our mission is to foster an inclusive space where widows of all generations can connect, find encouragement, and grow together in a safe space.

Community is an essential part of healing. Bridging the support found in group ‘therapy’ with the strength that comes from shared experiences. New weekly episodes debut soon.  Please share your reflections  and honestly engage with others in this new supportive and safe community. As producer and host I’m only one click away (AgingWithGrace2020@gmail.com) for comments, thoughts, or ideas for future topics or guests . Thanks for listening on Apple, iHeart, Amazon, Spotify, or wherever you subscribe to podcasts.