Hi, I am 53 years, my wife died last year she was 46, I have 2 grown up kids. I do feel too lonely and always thinks about her. She was the only one whom I can convey everything and can bank upon. Life feels useless now, I am physically active but nothing interests me. My friends asks me to marry again but i think i wont be able to do justice to another person due to my lovely memories, what to do?

Ans: Dear Anonymous,
I am truly sorry for your loss...
The journey of grief is so different for each person and you can feel alright on one day and devastated on another day...Give your self ample time to grieve and speak about her; it will be painful but the more you allow yourself to speak about her, you will notice that you are closer to accepting the fact of your loss...it is a journey, so do take your time...
But in the meantime, do make sure that you do take help in the form of a support system of your family and friends. Yes, they do have their own lives but I am sure that they will step in kindly when it is required.
Also, you might find that you socially isolate yourself and move away from everything that used to give you joy. You must find a way of getting back to all of those things reminding yourself that you must live your life too...this is initially a way of filling the vacuum, but soon you will find that it does more that just distract you.

Finding another life partner is a decision that is yours to make; but I will suggest that you heal from the loss and then if and when you feel the time is right, you may seek a life partner. But right now, all you will do is find a huge respite to fill in your loneliness and not be able to form a connection with that person. So, take care of yourself first, heal well and then slowly make life-altering decisions.

All the best...I am sure you can do this!

Ans: Dear J,
I am truly sorry for your loss and can only imagine how this has been affecting you!
The world has opened up through the power of the Internet and
- You can access various groups that boast of like-minded people who share interests similar to yours
- You can also take up teaching through the virtual medium so that the next generation can benefit from your expertise
- Reach out to old colleagues and connect with them and come up with an idea of doing a joint project together
- Hit a nearby park where you might find a Laughter Club, Yoga Club and other activities that will also keep you physically fit
- if you have ever thought of writing a book, NOW is the time
You get the drift? It's all about being part of a group or team that has a strong purpose that keeps you physically and mentally fit. You are only as lonely as you think...it feels real BUT when you channelize your time productively and purposefully, you will feel a sense of fulfilment!

All the best!

Ans: Dear Anonymous,

I am really sorry for your loss. I understand that pressure from family and peers can be stressful, but it's important not to rush into a new relationship simply because others want you to. While their opinions likely stem from concern for you, it's crucial to allow yourself the time and space to grieve your wife's passing.

If your family doesn't understand your decision, it's okay to stand firm. You're an adult capable of discerning what's best for yourself. Stick to your current path and honor your grieving process. Once you believe you have felt all the emotions, processed your loss, and begun to move forward should you consider the possibility of remarrying, but that too, only if you feel like it and are ready for it. Marrying to fill the void, or to take of your kid is never a good idea. I am sure you are doing a great job as a single dad. Trust yourself to make the right decision when the moment is appropriate.

Best Wishes!

Ans: I am so sorry for your loss, Deepak. The loss of your partner must be beyond heartbreaking, I can’t even imagine how you must feel. If you crave love and companionship again, by all means pursue it. You deserve to be happy again. My only advice is, don’t rush headlong into anything; you’ve been through a lot of trauma, take your time to heal and then move forward with your life.