| I just read an excellent article by Cheryl Richardson, | | | | break up of a commitment or marriage. You can no |
| about moving on and healing after a break up. She | | | | longer look forward to the fun times that were once |
| states that next to the death of a loved one, dealing | | | | spent with your ex…holiday traditions, dinner with |
| with the end of a relationship is one of the most painful | | | | friends, parties or even the seemingly mundane events |
| things in life that we will endure. Thinking about this | | | | like making breakfast together, or grocery shopping |
| statement makes me conclude that the death of a | | | | (can you tell I will mostly miss food related events that |
| loved one is in so many ways similar to a break up. | | | | occurred with the ex?!). |
| In both cases the relationship is drastically different | | | | An emotional death of one you used to love can be |
| from what you are used to. With the death of a | | | | argued to be just as painful, if not more, than the |
| loved one, you can no longer physically be there with | | | | physical death of a loved one because of the lack of |
| that person. Same with a break up. You miss the | | | | compassion and sympathy you receive from others. |
| physicality of your past relationship…the hugs, the | | | | Ever know anyone who received casseroles and |
| kisses, the lovemaking, the cuddling. No matter that | | | | flower arrangements when their divorce became final! |
| the person is still living and breathing, that physical part | | | | Maybe I should be the first to start this act of |
| of your relationship is dead, no matter how good it | | | | condolences…”So sorry you’re no longer |
| once was. | | | | married so I brought you lasagna and some lilies.” |
| The good times you once had with the deceased can | | | | That would make me feel better! |
| no longer be had. The situation is identical with a | | | | |