Wow-I was particularly struck by the phrase "we learn to accommodate the loss into our lives". That is so true. We go on living, but someone we love does not. And because of this, we will never, ever be the same. It's like learning to live with a wound that never completely heals. We are always aware of it, though it is hidden beneath a bandage of sorts. But it aches, and certain things we do seem to aggravate the wound. And just when the scab begins to form, some memory tears the wound open once more, and we cannot pretend that it doesn't hurt. It hurts-terribly. And though we know that the sun still rises, it doesn't shine as brightly as it once did. There is a bounce missing from our step, and a sparkle absent from our eyes. Even the "good times" are not so good because the world has changed, and we are not the same. Never again will we judge another person's way of grieving, or the length of time it requires. For we know in truth, that our grieving will never really be over. The edges are not as rough at times, but the loss still pierces our soul. We can never be entirely whole again because a part of us is missing. And yet we carry that part inside always. We will never want to completely let go because our lives have become entwined. It is difficult to tell where one begins and the other ends. There is no need to explain that to a mother, a father, or to a grieving spouse. And yet somehow we move forward, but we cannot help but look in the rearview mirror-for all our yesterdays are back there. To leave them completely behind would be to deny their great significance. And so we pack them in the suitcase of our heart where we will treasure them forever. To let go of my loved one would be to let go of myself, for we are one. Now I will try and live life for the two of us. My eyes will drink in all that they would have seen; my laughter and tears will be multiplied, and a hundred times a day I will wish that I could share it all once more. Lonnie (From the Main Board)