Friends

As I sit here dunking my Oreo "double stuff" in milk, it occurred to me how powerful the word friend has become to me. And, how friends not only have come and gone throughout my life, but how they've changed.

While the better half of a couple (before my hubby died), our friends were mainly other couples. When I was single, my friends were mainly single. Until a few moments ago, this didn't seem to be very important to me.

Since becoming a widow, it appears that my place isn't with either the married or the single group. Those of my age who are still married often make me feel as if I'm an intruder into their private world. And single folks in my age bracket think I should be "acting my age." Couldn't help but be surprised when told "widows shouldn't want to date or have fun." Guess they think I should be in perpetual mourning.

Most of those I call "friend" are younger than me, don't expect anything from me but to return friendship, and they are men! Hmm, I must delve into that more!

My very best friend in the world (my soul sister) is married and has told me she can't relate to being a widow at all. Neither could I until it happened to me!

Who made the rules about how a widow (or widower) should act? Is there a book of etiquette somewhere that I should study in earnest so that I don't screw up? Am I supposed to lay down with a lily in my hands and wait for death to overtake me because I am widowed?

Aw, to heck with it. You know what? There's just not enough time left for me to worry about what is or isn't right for me to do. I'm going to enjoy what time I have left!