Today was my husband's birthday, and it has been exactly 18 months since he died.
I sat and looked at his picture, wished him happy birthday, laid down in the bed and cried for at least a half hour. I could remember all the birthdays we celebrated, all the silly cards, the cakes, and how we laughed. He always said, "don't worry" I am going to stay around until I am one hundred! I told him today that this was the only promise he ever broke to me and it was the only one that really mattered!
My daughter came over and said that her IPad gave her a reminder, "don't forget to call Dad for his birthday". She has forgotten to remove it from her calendar. She said, "Mom, had can Dad just not be here anymore?" It is heartbreaking when you have to face that horrible question. Facing the fact that the most important person in your life has just vanished, gone for good, and is not returning is a feeling that cannot be described in words. It can only be felt in one's heart - I feel it as an ache in my chest.
I miss him so much today and every day. I am glad this day is ending in a few hours. I fear holidays, anniversaries, and birthdays since they add another layer to to the pain of loss. They add to the longing for love, companionship, trust, and all the wonderful things a beloved spouse brought us.
Maxey

Views: 125

Replies to This Discussion

Dear Maxey,

Reading your post made my heart ache. As you note, birthdays, anniversaries, and holidays add another layer of pain and yearning to the suffering we face everyday. It was my husband's birthday last month, so I know very well how you dreaded facing this day and how the day was spent: in tears and in laying in bed most of the day. What torture this is! Losing a beloved spouse is such an irreparable loss, one that others who have not faced it don't understand.

For me it's been more than two and a half years since Joseph died, and not a day goes by when I don't feel deep sadness and pain that he is forever gone. So I understand your anguish and empathize with the thought that this day is ending soon.

Hang in there and take comfort in the happy memories that you shared. Let those memories give you strength and help bring some peace.

Sending you thoughts of healing and peace. Hugs, Trina 

Maxey,

I cry for my Husband everyday and he has been gone 4 years. He was my everything and now I am nothing just waiting to join home.

Linda

Thanks for talking about birthdays, Maxey -- my husband's birthday is coming in a few weeks, the first since he died, and it is so much on my mind. Earlier I thought that would be the time for a memorial gathering but I still can't face that kind of activity. I have a photo of him from last birthday in the living room and a smaller copy by the bed...they are comforting, beautiful and full of life. although also in a way that is painful. I am okay with being sad -- as the months go by I find it less acceptable to show it as I can see that it is a great burden to those around me, and I do think my brain is recovering some equilibrium which lets me behave a bit more normally. I'm sure my husband would be glad about that, as he was very compassionate and considerate of other people's feelings. I would like to do something on his birthday to honour him -- he was such a celebrater and always called his birthday Richard's Resurrection. Yet I can't find it in myself to do celebratory or even social things. Maybe I will plant something on that day. Sorry for rambling -- your post touched on something that is so meaningful, though I guess the issues these special days on the calendar raise for the bereaved have no one-size-fits-all solution.

RSS

Latest Activity

david karpe posted a status
"I'm wondering if Myrna is well. Happy new year to Myrna and everybody."
Jan 15
david karpe is now a member of Online Grief Support - A Social Community
Jan 15
Sasha Moshko posted a discussion

My Fathers Loss

Many years ago, I lost my father after his battle with colon cancer that later spread to his bones. The grief stayed with me longer than I expected. Ambrosia Behavioral Health helped me work through that loss, understand my emotions, and find healthier ways to cope and move forward. https://www.ambrosiatc.comSee More
Jan 14
Sasha Moshko left a comment for Sasha Moshko
"Professional help gives you a safe space to talk, understand your emotions, and learn healthy ways to cope. It can make grief feel less overwhelming and easier to manage over time. https://www.ambrosiatc.com"
Jan 14
MELANIE WALENDOWSKY BAKER is now a member of Online Grief Support - A Social Community
Jan 14
Krystal Swinehart joined Jodi Denton's group
Thumbnail

Traumatic loss of an only child

I started this group so that people who have lost their only child or the only child that remained, as in my case, could come together because I believe people that did have a child or children who now have none have special issues.
Jan 12
Krystal Swinehart joined Dayna's group
Thumbnail

Loss of a loved one to alcohol, substance abuse or suicide

If you have lost a loved one to alcohol, substance abuse or suicide please share your story or feelings here. Share the love and beauty of the one you lost. Losing someone any of these ways is not natural and can be hard to understand and ask why? I lost my Mother to an overdose 9 years ago. She also suffered from major depression. Her doctor got her hooked on pain medication and she was addicted most of my life. These doctors who were suppose to help her ended up killing her in the end. I also…See More
Jan 12
Karen R. replied to Entony's discussion Movies about grief that actually understand loss — any recommendations?
"So sorry!💔💔💔💔💔"
Jan 2

© 2026   Created by Ninja.   Powered by

Badges  |  Report an Issue  |  Terms of Service