The tree, the packages, the wrappings, the dishes that still need to be put away, and the people gone. Gone with them are the recent memories created. Gone with them, the times and the ghosts of those kept alive by the stories. Not gone is the sadness of those who were not alive to share with you.
And then there are those still left – your partner, your children, perhaps a parent living with you or deteriorating in a nursing home. You look around and know that you too are aging. Some day you will be gone. The years seem to fly by. And, upon reflection you recognize your own unhappiness.
Where was the promise of your marriage? Where is the love that was supposed to last through your lifetime, providing you support, companionship, caring? To have come so far in life and not be enjoying the present, the future looks pretty dreary.
What to do? Make a commitment to yourself to make some big changes. It doesn’t mean you end your relationship, nor buy a new house. It means find a way to enliven your relationship, find out what your partner is missing. If you are not happy, it’s a good guess that your partner isn’t either.
Speak up – kindly. Ask for what you need and want while you are finding out what your partner is needing and wanting, too. It’s time to rekindle or to rethink your life plans.
