The Empty Chair

It was just the other day that I saw a tanker truck delivering gas at a station like the one Pat used to drive. It brought back so many memories from our early days when he worked at Standard Oil of Ohio, prompting me to take a picture.

In chatting with the driver, I discovered he had lost his spouse suddenly six months prior. He, like many of us, will be gathering around the table with the empty chair in mind—the chair that once held the person who brought laughter, smiles, kindness, and love into our lives. My heart aches for you, as I know what that feels like. Others cannot understand the unbearable loneliness and silence that accompanies the grief of losing a loved one.

In those early years, I found solace in the constant presence of the radio, tuned to my favorite channel. Staying in touch with family was essential, but reaching out to other widows and widowers became a form of therapy for me. They understood my pain, and together we could support one another.

In the musical "Wicked," the song "For Good" always prompts me to reflect on gratitude for what was and what is now: “Because I knew you, I have been changed for good.” It is a reminder of the goodness from Pat that remains despite the empty chair.

As you sit at the table, may you reflect on the goodness of your loved one and certainly on the Lord who created it all. As stated in 1 Chronicles 16:34, “Oh give thanks to the Lord, for He is good, and His steadfast love endures forever.”

Happy Thanksgiving,

Your friend,

Sharon