(google image)
Don’t ask
don’t tell
A good widow
stays in the shadows
doesn’t mind the stares
I wear my wedding ring,
a source of confusion to some
I will wear it as long as I need to
So many questions
The lady at the nail salon
wanted to know
all the gorey details of the car accident
while trying to upsell me
on an acrylic manicure.
“I’m trying to save,” I said.
“I only have one income now.”
She said, “You’re lucky to be alive.”
I laughed and said, “I guess.”
I didn’t go back there again.
A good widow knows her place
A bad one has a scarlet letter
carved into her heart
She tries not to upset your
sensibilities
She tries to remember her place
Don’t burn her at the stake
Suburban Hobo 
Strong piece, Erica. “… scarlet letter
carved into her heart.” Hurts like an ice pick stabbing the soul.
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That’s what it feels like a lot of the time, Matt.
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I cringe for the insensitivity of fellow human beings. Thank you Erica for these heart felt words. Sending a hug. 💛
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Thank you, Val.
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Well said!!
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((((Hugs)))) You are in my thoughts and prayers on a regular basis…..keep writing and I’ll keep reading…Lucie
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Thank you, Lucie. xo
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You are welcome, Erica…..many of us “hold you” in love and prayers as you travel down this lone path….. ❤
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Great loss is often too personal to share with strangers. There is no door to slam in the face of too many questions. I am sorry you had to experience this insensitivity. Keep letting it all out as best you can. Sheila
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Thank you, Sheila.
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People can be so . . . fill-in-the-blank. Strong writing, Erica. I like the mix of first and third person. It allows the reader to shift in and out. Wishing you healing thoughts as always.
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Thank you, Sharon.
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Wow, what an awful experience at the nail salon. I’m sorry you had to go through it. But I respect you for keeping on your wedding ring. You do what feels right, and fuck everyone else. I think of you and Samson often. As I’ve said before, if you’re able and want to get away and come to Paris to have a change of scenery, just let me know – we have an apartment just across the hall and would gladly welcome you. Sending a big hug. Hang in there and as the young folks say, Fuck the haters.
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Alysa, Yes, it was pretty awful. I didn’t realize it was awful until much later. I guess I’m numb to a lot of things. Thank you for the kind offer! I will keep that in mind. xo
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I’m so sorry you’re suffering people’s insensitivity. When my grandfather died, my grandmother asked if that meant she had to take off her wedding ring. (They had been married 67 years, and the thought really upset her.) I told her the only time it might cause a problem is if she decided she wanted to remarry. I still firmly believe that only the survivor can decide when he/she is ready to take off the ring. For some, it is never.
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Thank you for the kind words, cat.
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