Letting Go of Forever

Book excerpt: Jim and Peg Rule were living active lives when without warning, back pain signaled the onset of cancer and in less than nine months, Jim's life partner of thirty-seven years was gone. Like many others who have lost a loved one to premature death, Jim faced the difficult challenge of going on with his life. As folded socks, toothbrushes, and shampoo became near-sacred objects, Jim wondered why God had not prevented Peg's death. In this collection of poignant essays, Jim not only shares the thoughts and feelings that express his sorrow as he walked through the journey of grief, but also provides insight and sensitivity into the workings of God and how He provides assurance and courage, even in the face of great tragedy. Written in two parts-aftermath and individuation-Jim details the beginning of his solitary life, how he muddled through the holidays and other firsts, and how he learned to establish his individuality, separate and distinct from whom he had become with his wife. For anyone traveling through the darkness after the shadow of death, Letting Go of Forever touches the soul, inspires a broken heart, and encourages the belief that better days will come.