I've posted some words at David's thread, but I have to confess I entirely missed the threads on Allison's loss. Since I lost my dear wife Graciela on Dec 02, 2002 (incredibly, one year ago), I retired from musical activities and regrettably reduced contacts with many friends like those of the Mudcat. I lost the words to say, and the thoughts to share, and the light of my mind. After one year I still don't say that I want things to go better, because I don't feel the need for anything to go better, I consider my life was well done, and I was incredibly fortunate, and I still am fortunate by living and working for my sons and one grandson (hope to see more little critters).

Last October I participated in a chamber concert, and sung "Lazy Bones" and "Sometimes I Feel" (those who know me, will remember how I love Southern old songs) and felt again the emotional feedback of people. Next Friday I'll sing as tenor in the mass (organ and large choir) for her anniversary at the same church we married in 1972.

As unbeleivable as it may sound, a woman appeared very recently, she is lovely, is an artist of folk dance, she respects my wife's memory as if she was a friend of her. She got her divorce many years ago after many years of suffering (victim of some domestic violence). I've welcome her, as my wife told me to do, as myself would have told her to do. No celebration, no fireworks, just acceptance of this extra time I'm allowed to live, and try to be something good for someone, love and respect her, and be a father for my sons. How long? I don't know, nothing counts, everything was already done, the concert is over and the audience claims for some extra song. We can't be more grateful.

Hope this experience helps a little, Allison and David. My thoughts are with you. Un abrazo,
Andrés (Buenos Aires, Argentina)