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I have to say, John, I love your attitude, and your sense of humor! I'm sorry you're having to go through all of this but I'm glad you're here with us. Hang around any time!

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This is gorgeous and so moving, Ramona. My heart is aching, but I am in awe of your aspirations for this next phase of life. Keep going. Keep writing. Eager to read whatever comes next.

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Thank you, Kate. It should be interesting!

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We each have a personal roadmap that leads to a spot such a this marked with flowers and memories. You will undoubtedly plant the seeds of life that you have gathered over the years in new places, watering some with tears of sadness and others with tears of joy. Thank you for sharing your journey. 💜

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What a beautiful tribute. I am moved by your love and strength. Sending you and your family peace and love. 🙏🏼

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Thanks for sharing.

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I'm so sorry, Ramona. I have a friend older than you who has recently embarked on this journey, after 70 years of marriage, and it is something one must, when all's said and done, take alone. Those who embrace widowhood as a new chapter tend to do better, I think.

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💚💚💚💚💚

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Sorry for your loss, and may the coming years be peaceful and productive.

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Thank you for sharing this beautiful tribute to a long life of love. I’ll be following this next chapter of your life with great interest.

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Hi Ramona, my heart goes out to you as you begin this new journey. My husband and I met when we were 12 and married when we were 19. We had 62 years together until he died from COVID and dementia. Like you, this is my the first time on my own. The past year has been filled with new experiences, lots of learning, and deep sadness for the losses - of my soulmate, my identity, and, everything that was known. The journey hasn't been easy, but it is rewarding. I wish for you peace and love.

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Thank you, Janice. Wise words. I'll be sure to remember them.

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A lovely piece from the heart, Ramona. Your approach to a new life and to grief is the way I would like to live mine, should the worst happen. Thank you for your honesty.

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Thank you, Prue. It's never easy but I believe you honor those who have left you by living the life they would want for you.

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Your love for Ed is so Beautifully expressed here. I felt it in my heart from miles away.

But even more so, your spirit for Life in general.

I wait patiently for your new writings to come, you inspire me & I am glad I found your newsletter.

Yours, Yan

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How lovely, Yan. I can't thank you enough. I'm glad you're here.

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I look forward to reading more of your writing! I appreciate your ability, honesty, and readiness for the return of having more time to dig into the long pieces you speak of writing. I lost my baby brother when he was 31 and I was 33. A dear friend from high school called me three weeks after he passed... I write about it here https://journalisa.substack.com/p/what-is-maturity?s=w. I've learned to receive messages from beyond. My dad didn't believe in it but weeks before he passed he said, "You and I will have much communication in the great beyond." Within 24 hours of his passing I got my first sign from him. My mom always wanted to believe it. I can't even count how illustrious she has been from an hour before she passed to the present moment. Yesterday I spoke with a pharmacist who is also very conversed in all this. She was saying she still has constant communication with her husband who passed in 2015 and the language between them and guidance gets ever clearer over time. Nothing you have to effort for... just be open to. I applaud you and your calm, clear, strength!

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Beautifully expressed, Ramona. 1955 till now is a really long time. Cherish him in your memories and i'm certain he is still watching lovingly over your writing 😊

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Thank you, Jo. Yes, my memories are everything to me.

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