...and they lived happily ever after.

[sgctxok]

Did they? If they did, it was because they strove for it, they always worked to be better and understood and communicated their needs wants and dreams to their loved one.

Last night while watching Taiko drummers from Japan, my wife curled into me and thanked me for the surprise with a kiss.

And I realized that I had to struggle to remember the pain of this.

I remember writhing on the ground tearing handfuls of grass up when I ruptured my knee, but the pain?

Like this I can remember what I did, but not how the pain felt. I understand what you are going through but not the pain or struggle anymore.

I no longer get mad when I think of my wife and the OM…a little sad still, but even that is faded and frayed.

I’m out of touch to be offering advice.

Selfishly, I am glad of being out of touch…I remember that the pain sucks, I know enough not to want it again.

Trying to remember the pain, and offering perspectives from my past, I wonder if it is hampering my present; sometimes it does.

I struggle to remember the ideas that got me through, but several stand out.

Patience.

Be patient.

You can do this one day at a time.

Become the person you want to see in the mirror.

For those who have it, of course you can drop me a line.

I’m not saying goodbye, just goodbye for now.

I wouldn’t be here if not for my friends here, one and all, too numerous to list and I’m too stupid to get every one of you down on this thread, so rather than accidentally leave someone out, you know who you are.

Jack / Jeff

I think have crossed over to the successful side of this, offers hope to so man, and makes you a perfect person to be giving advice.

I hope you come back OFTEN!!! You are ALWAYS welcome here!