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  • Lea Hartline

Challenge: Grocery Store


One of the most challenging parts of moving forward after losing a loved one is often the day-to-day stuff. I went into the whole widow thing with the idea that I was "strong." I would face everything straight on, look fear in the eye and not shrink. I would face it all. Honestly, I have done that in some ways. Still, there are days like today where the day off to-do list was extensive, and part of it included hitting the grocery store for a few of my favorite things. The grocery store emotionally drains me every time.


I've tried a few different tactics. I have attempted to go to different stores, I have them bring it to my car, and online shopping. It is all emotional, and I have to do the shopping when I know I can be done for the day. There can be very little left to do once I fill the house with food. Food is a reminder of the best times in my marriage. I always say look for the silver lining in the dark clouds. So, I guess if there is one silver lining, I am losing weight.


In case your curious, grief sucks! But I grocery shop, and I fight to stay above the grief. I miss him every second of every hour of every day. But he loved me, and I had more love in 30 years than some people have ever, so as hard as the day-to-day hurts, it was worth it for those 30 years.


Marriage advice


Find joy in the day-to-day! It is those things, not the big moments, that matter the most. I don't miss big trips or Holidays; I miss laughing with him in the grocery store. I miss putting the groceries away together, and I miss cooking with him by my side. Enjoy the daily moments. Love Continues In those day to day things that move us forward into living our lives sometimes we have to figure out ways to adjust to our new life. Verse Psalm 121:1-2

“I lift up my eyes to the mountains—where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.”

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