I have to agree about the word "widow". I often heard it over the years, but never resonated until I became one. It just doesn't sound right.

Like you I will always be married to the love of my life. That is just the choice I have made, because no one can take his place. For those that find new love, that is great, but not for me.

Take care JoAnn

Good heavens yes! It's a dreadful word. I've hated it a lot for the last year. It conjures up all sorts of mental images of women in black hats and veils for me. It's only a label. It doesn't have to define your life or all of who you are. It's only a part of it, and one you didn't take on willingly.

My thoughts and best wishes go with you.

I was just thinking about that earlier today as I was filling out a form...am I still technically married? I'd like to think so...I don't like the word 'widow' either...it makes me think of a spider.

JoAnn, my husband and I were married on May 23rd, 1985. We were married 30 years. My heart goes out to you.

I'm so sorry for your loss and the fact now you are in the big "W" club. See...I can't even type the word! It is an awful word. In your heart you will always be married. Today I am 6 months into this awful journey. The fog has lifted a bit but that's not to say there aren't heavy fog warnings along the way still. You can only take one day at a time. I know it's hard but try not to dwell on the past re: shoulda, coulda, woulda...you can't change that. Remember the fond memories that you had all of those wonderful years. Btw...we were married in April of the same year as you and your love were! I can't believe how fast the time flew by. My heart goes out to you and remember...we are all here for you anytime 24/7!!!
Loads of love coming your way!
Darcie

I don't think I will ever change my Facebook status to "widow." In my heart I am still married.

10 months from tragedy, still wearing my wedding ring. I've thought about moving it, like some people I know. But that's all so far, just thought about it.

drm.. widow is only a word it is not a state of mind, not a feeling, and it does not encompass the love you have for your husband. Just remember, if there is a heaven, they don't miss us, but remember us.. Why would they miss us, there is no pain, tears, negativity in heaven. So I have begun to see that someday I will be with/see sean, and he will remember me, and our love, once shared. you did not lose your husband, I'm sure you know right where he is. Also, life doesnt go on, you push forward. Time doesnt heal all wounds, it just allows us to accept what we can not change. In time, you will see how you feel, if the pain has lessened enough for you to try to live, and grow in this life on earth. Big hugs, and blessings sent your way You are still very early in your grief, take your time, and cry, scream, wail, it's all perfectly normal.

I fought against the word widow for a very long time. I even checked married whenever possible, because I felt married. It's like being told to "get over it " no one gets over losing a spouse or love one. We learn to appreciate the memories.
I'm sorry for your loss. I welcome you to the group and hope you find comfort and compassion here with us. I found great strength and inspiration with the people here. Sharon

I know deep in my heart and soul that my heart will always be busy and long only for her. I will never get married again even though I know she would want me to be happy. The only thing that would make me truly happy was to be with her.

Yeah there are some words that just make us cringe and widow is right there at the top. I feel like I should be dressed in Victorian Garb and have 20 cats, but I ride around in a red SUV and wear "Hooker Shoes"

Maggie

Years ago, my grandfather left my grandmother for a much younger woman. My grandmother hated "divorcee" (she never remarried) so when my grandfather predeceased her, she adopted "widow" as her status. I must say, I am with her on this one :)...

I'm kind of past caring what I call myself or what others call me.
Legal papers force you to use "widow".
I have temp disabled my FB account. too painful. but on there I have left myself married.
I am more concerned with practical things, like having a home to live in... &/or whatever I end up with, will it be comfy enough to Really be like a Home.
Will I be able to afford to live at all, etc.