I share my story of traveling by myself after the death of my first husband. Memories invade my head and heart and I hope you feel both loss and hope between the lines. Things to reflect is my wish for you.
My friend’s husband died five months ago. She has completed a lot of the necessary business connected with this loss — the paperwork, thank you cards, etc., and is learning to live alone. Now, she is ready to take that first trip all by herself.
I am proud of her. I think the timing is good with a “change of scenery” to look forward to. The occasion is a wedding in the family, so she will visit with loved ones who live far away. I wish her bon voyage and prayers as she flies off on her first trip – alone.
I stress alone because there are many situations ahead for her as a single traveler. She is a very friendly person who is warm and caring but can also be very assertive — standing up for what she believes. These two attitudes will get her through the security lines, delays, and finally the reunion with her niece who will be there to meet her at the airport.
These thoughts take me back to my first trip alone. I went down to Florida for New Year’s Eve at my brother’s home. On the way, everything went smoothly. No baggage problems, no delays – not even a cloud in the winter sky as I left Chicago.
But here are the things I learned on this first trip without John. Some are humorous. First, I could NOT lose my ticket or hotel key. No more, “Honey, I lost my stuff.” I was in charge. No more help with the baggage. I was glad I packed light! I called the limo when I arrived . . . not my husband, so the numbers had to be convenient. That was before cell phones and I had to use . . . a pay phone! I also had to carry enough money for tips, coffee or small necessities . . . no more husband to reach over to and expect a few dollars placed in my hand! This was my first trip — alone — and this was surely a dose of reality!
Now, many years later, I can look back and feel good about taking that first trip. I can also understand how lucky I was with no catastrophes. I know my friend will be okay — and have lots to share when she returns.
A closing thought — a lesson. Even though she is physically alone, I know she has two strong men by her side . . . the spirit of her husband and the ultimate travel companion — Our Loving God!
Thank you to all my followers and greetings to my new ones. Many of you were introduced to my work after reading my first book, FROM WE TO ME…letters to my friend. This was published in the fall of 2013 and has enjoyed some success. Many of those who have read the book have written encouraging comments, saying it was helpful to those who are experiencing grief.
Thank you MaryAnn for sharing and writing your thoughts and trials on the loss and grief of a loved one.
Losing someone close to you, whether it is a husband, wife, child or another member of your family or a dear friend, certainly changes the outlook on life as we had known it. I, as a friend, who have known you for many years, have witnessed your grief and how you shared it with many others through this blog. You truly are a child of the Most High, and He put you on this earth to help others cope through the hardships by resting in the peace of our Almighty God.
Again, your friend in Christ, Dottie