So many times when I
am walking down the street and I see
couples together, I
wish that you were here to walk next to me.
Or when I see interesting
things, I wish you were here to
experience them with
me. Or when I feel things that I want to
share with somebody,
I wish you were here so that I would have
someone to whom I could
express them.
~ Sam, March 1, 1989
After you honor the regular ache of these longings, dissolve them purposefully into the open arms that wait with life to encircle you again. You have seen a world full of people who listen, others who care, and some who will expand your heart’s chambers again. So as you awaken from your days of dormancy, follow their trails and extend your hand first.
Then return to the circle of
those who have surrounded you and let their compassion mend its frayed
edges. And though your wine glass may still be filled with tears,
accept the love—however it is extended—and offer it back, sharing what
you have witnessed and where you have been. Do not hope to be received
with the aged understanding of your beloved. Just appreciate the
smallest offerings of goodwill and carry them away like precious stones
in your pocket…to remind you later of the kinship you can no longer neglect.