My Time 4 Talk by Madona Cole-Lacy

While many couples look forward with excitement to continue their rekindled love journey after the recent Valentine’s Day experience, I daresay there are just as many people who wake up to yet another day without their dearest Valentines beside them.

It is my status as a surviving spouse and member of this group that compels me to reach out to all who missed that meaningful interaction with their significant others on a day designated as one for couples to ignite, rekindle and reinforce their love, appreciation, friendship and admiration for each other.

Even though I cannot claim to understand how everyone in this position feels, I can safely say that I do have an understanding of what it feels like to lose a devoted spouse. It is with that in mind that I share the following coping suggestions as my giant hug to all who are experiencing the perpetual nature of the love they shared with their partners, who have passed away. My hope is that these suggestions derived from the lessons of my life, will serve as a foundation to a personalized list for embracing a new normal in the absence of loving partners. Please feel free to share suggestions that have worked for you.

Tips for coping with the absence of loved ones on special occasions and holidays

To couples who know what genuine love looks and feels like, I pray this will serve as a gentle call to action for compassionate interactions between you and surviving partners … not just on Valentine’s day, but on other occasions too!

Readers are invited to share suggestions/tips that have been effective for them.

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