THRIVING Melanin Family Magazine November 2018 | Page 33

BLACK AUTHORS ROCK : AUTHOR SPOTLIGHT  
"The First 365"
My wife battled health issues for many years, but we adjusted, and we had a plan. We had
adjusted the rhythm of our lives. The key word was “we,” and the six words “I am sorry to inform
you” were all gone. I remember never feeling more alone during those initial moments than at any
time in my life. You see, my wife was a big part of my life. I remember the reaction of others who
were sitting around me the first time I publicly proclaimed those words. The knowing smiles and
the gentle nods let me know that they understood. You see, the first time I stated this was during
a seminar titled “Surviving the Holidays.” In this seminar, everyone there had experienced a
significant loss of some sort. Like almost everyone else, I had individuals close to me who passed
away. I couldn’t help but to wonder why did this loss feel so much more personal to me? The
answer became very clear. However, this was a battle that I had been more personally invested in
than any of my previous losses. I will never forget my first words upon hearing that my wife had
died. Those words were “Oh, Robyn.” What may have seemed like a weird reaction to some was
part of the irrational thoughts that would become very familiar to me. “Why didn’t you tell me that
you were dying? We could tell each other anything!”
www.authorhouse.com
For those who would like to purchase a signed copy of the book, this
can be purchased through
paypal.me/thefirst365
The price of the book is $10.99 + $5.00 shipping and handling.
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SEPTEMBER
2018 • THRIVE |
31