By Sharon DeVaney, MOAA Surviving Spouse Advisory Committee member
http://www.moaa.org/
How do you fill the void in your life after you lose your spouse? Here are some ideas to help you become the outgoing person you once were:
. If you don't have to relocate, it could be possible to rely on your family and friends for a while. Your family members have suffered a loss as well. Try to brighten their days. You could meet for lunch or bring a salad or dessert to share a meal.
. If you have grandchildren who have school programs or sporting events, you can attend and be there for them. Perhaps, their school needs volunteers or mentors.
. Maybe your church sponsors a grief support group. Listening to speakers and sharing with others might help you process your loss.
. Calling another widow or widower and inviting them to a MOAA meeting will help both of you keep that connection to military life. Offer to help. You could represent surviving spouses if that position is not filled.
. Volunteering to help at your church or for a community function will bring you as much reward as you will give to others. Every group needs new faces and willing hands.
. Try something you haven't done before. I became a docent at our Fine Arts Center. I loved touring visitors of all ages. For many children, this was their only exposure to art. Also, other docents became my new friends.
. Use your work-related skills. I volunteered to teach a life story writing class at the nonprofit in my community. That brought a group of strangers together who became new friends as they shared their amazing life stories.
. Discover a new talent. I moved this summer and joined the drama club at the senior center. I hoped to find people who wanted to attend plays. Instead, I learned the club was producing the Fall Follies. All of a sudden, I had bit parts in three skits and the opening and closing numbers. We closed with a Salute to Veterans, which moved the audience to come to their feet!
. Spread cheer by visiting residents in a nursing home. A friend in Florida makes bouquets from her garden and brings them to residents.
. Consider getting a dog. It will need to be fed, walked, and loved. I guarantee that you will be visiting with other dog owners on your daily walks.
Forwarded by:
Margaret "Peggy" Mock
Your Surviving Spouse Liaison
941-356-3584
peggymock@michaelsaunders.com
