Being in the play A Christmas Carol does a lot of good for me in many ways. When you spend 75 days listening to the lines of a grumpy old man whose only life’s focus is money, it begins to sink in.
Toward the end of the play Scrooge says, “I was just remembering my happy times. They seem so very far away.”
I wonder how many people there are in the world who share that same sentiment.
There have certainly been times over the past couple of years when I felt like life just didn’t seem to be worth living without Lisa. But life is big.
Perhaps I won’t ever find love like I had with her, maybe that is behind me.
But as I look at those around me, I’m beginning to realize that few of us live with every aspect of our existence exactly where we want it to be. Fortunately for me, I’ve been able to find other areas of my life that are really very good, even without my wife.
I can’t say: I lost my wife therefore all of my happy times seem far away. No, I lost out big time, and it stinks! Now I must create new happy times.
I can wallow in lost dreams or I can rearrange them – I can make new ones. I’m going to try to do the latter.
The Real Fuller House 
Mom
/ December 23, 2012You’re doing an amazing job of making new happy times even though it’s hard. Your kids are picking up your attitude and chosing the same thing. Good job, son. You’re doing it right, as hard as it it.
that Jeff Johnson
/ December 23, 2012Well said. Mirrors many of my own thoughts. Thank you.
that Jeff Johnson
/ December 23, 2012Reblogged this on think relationally… and commented:
Another widowed father voicing similar understanding that life still has much to offer even after experiencing a life-changing tragedy such as the death of a spouse.
Danny Tanner
/ December 23, 2012Sometimes its difficult to see – but the further out you get, the easier it is for most. I feel for those who can’t seem to dig out and find happiness – although never quite the same, huh?
that Jeff Johnson
/ December 23, 2012It is indeed difficult. And everyone’s journey is different but there is enough similarity to empathize with others. On one hand, I’d give anything not to be on this journey yet on the other, this journey has added so much depth to life. The bottom line is that this is life so it must be embraced and made the most of in spite of loss. Thanks again for being another voice.
Faye Humphrey
/ December 23, 2012Bruce,
I enjoy your blog and so admire the way you have handled your situation. You are a great Dad and I pray you will find happiness with someone someday.
Faye Humphrey
Cris
/ December 23, 2012Wonderful sentiments I think we all need to remember this time of year.
Hugs,
-C
Danny Tanner
/ December 23, 2012I hope you do too!
sassymama23
/ December 24, 2012What great thoughts. There are always happy times to be had, maybe not in the same fashion, but they are there nonetheless. Good for you!
Have an amazing holiday with your family. 🙂
irgendwannso
/ December 24, 2012Thank you for sharing your thoughts, it is nice to follow them and to follow your blog. I am sorry for your families loss and send my compassion, supportive thoughts and understanding. You seem to put so much energy, love and passion into your life and I wish you ongoing positive thoughts and energy along your way! I think it is courageous to take the step and modify and create new paths of life to follow, and I wish you all the best for it- what a wonderful abd motivating example for those in similar situations. Thank you and HAPPY HOLIDAYS!
Danny Tanner
/ December 26, 2012Thank you for your thoughts! I appreciate the encouragement.
Alma Cutler
/ December 26, 2012Bruce, you are an amazing Dad to the girls. Hope you all had a good Christmas and hope you have a Happy New Year.
Danny Tanner
/ December 26, 2012and I hope you did too!