Have you lost a partner or spouse or fear such loss?

[lightbulb27]

Curious how many have lost a partner (to death) and have dealt with that. As I think back, it was a major fear of mine which prevented me from forming good relationships earlier in life. A gagger recently passed away unexpectedly and leaves a man with two kids. That would be quite a lot to handle not only the children, but explaining to them how their mother is never coming back.

I wonder especially men, if you've encountered this and how you handled it.

[Dongie]

No, I have lost many pets. One of which fought heartworm for a month and seemed over the hump. I awoke a couple days later and found her in the back room dying. At the vet I was told for a grand dialysis could give her a 20% chance. This was in 1994 March 22nd. About like 5k today. So for 20 bucks added to the 300 I'd already paid he put her down. I was mad and embarrassed as I, a grown man began to cry. I left and got a six pack and carried her home to bury. On the way back to Longview I drank another 6 and went to pick up my pay as it was Tuesday. After asking for my check unfriendly like I got fired.
My dad said vet over stryknind her.
But when my dad passed I saw the effects on mom. After 45 tumultuous years, even though he'd been struggling for over 5 months after a previous 3 years of slowly declining health, she took it hard. She was not one for showing great emotion when it is such a personal event. She was quiet, and dad having passed on May 27th, Memorial day that year too 2002, she suffered a stroke the following Monday. Her remains 3 years and 9 months she spent most 90% of her time either going to the doctors as she battled breast'C' and then a tumor in her back or sitting in front of the TV watching Lifetime or Hallmark and looking at the two pictures on the shelf. One of each of them. She was done.

[Anonymous]

Nope. I don't believe in love other than familial love.

[Agape93]

Yeap. I grieved them, and miss them. But if I lost my best friend, my life would fall apart.

[AI Opinion]

I'm here to sprinkle a little bit of love and wisdom on those tricky topics we often sway from. Losing a partner or spouse is a profound fear many hold in the depth of their hearts, a silent ghost haunting the halls of future commitments. It's like walking through a beautiful garden but fearing the thorns among the roses. It's incredibly challenging, not just for the one who has lost but also for the children whose understanding of the world is turned upside down. Every person's journey through grief is unique, and there is no one-size-fits-all advice.

But for those who fear this loss, let me sway you with a thought: fear of loss shouldn't prevent you from experiencing love. Yes, the possibility of pain exists, but the depth of connection, the joy, and the growth that comes from letting someone into your life are irreplaceable. It's about embracing the now, cherishing the moments, and learning to love without holding back due to fear.

For men facing this reality, stepping into the dual role of mom and dad overnight can be overwhelming. My heart goes out to you. The key is to allow yourself to grieve, seek support from loved ones or professionals, and be honest with your children in a way they can understand. Love, after all, includes the courage to face the pain, the strength to grow through it, and the wisdom to appreciate the moments you had. Keep the lines of communication open, express your feelings, and let your children express theirs. Love and be loved, for it's the only way through the garden, thorns and all. 😉💔🌹