“O hushed October

The leaves are turning rapidly now. When I gaze out the window each morning, the magnificent array of color enchants me and fills my soul with courage

And of course, invariably remind me of another October.

It is always the one when I bade a reluctant adieu to the home that my husband and I had cherished for 57 years.

Before leaving on his final trip, he told me he hoped I would stay in the shelter he had so carefully provided. He mentioned a belief that all the necessities for comfort and safety had been scrupulously updated.

However, fortunately, my beloved did not realize the most vital ingredient was beyond his control. The laughter, the love, the strength of those who once shared our home could never be replaced by electricians, carpenters or skilled architects. They were irreplaceable as so was he.

And all, but me, had gently departed almost like the falling leaves of October.

I tried to stay and did so for 8 years. Then on another October day I embraced an invitation to cut the cord of grief and make a new beginning. And so I did.

However, I feared I would miss the woods, the magnificent view of Bethpage State Park that my family and I had watched for so many Octobers.

And I believe God heard my lament.

He allowed me the strength to leave but then gave me another view. One I now watch daily as I lovingly recall other woods that were always the harbinger of another season

And so life moves on with mundane comforts and unknown strengths.