Two Girls FishingJohn Singer Sargent
My friend Lucy and I grew up together in a small town on Vancouver Island. We lived on the banks of a river, and spent a lot of time swimming, fishing, paddling in boats and just having fun. Lucy had the world's best laugh, and she laughed often. I met her when she first came to Canada and didn't speak a word of English. Laughter is a great way to communicate, though, and we became fast friends. Most of my memories of high school involve Lucy and our little group of friends. When Lucy fell in love and got married, I was her maid of honor. She had two beautiful children, but sadly her marriage did not last.
Twelve years ago Lucy fell in love again, with a man who enthusiastically pursued her. She was head over heels -- smitten. He bought her wonderful gifts, jewelry, sent her flowers, promised her the world. Ten years ago they married, and again I was a bridesmaid at her wedding. They began a wonderful life together, and built a gorgeous home on the ocean front. It was spectacular, with large wooden beams and spacious rooms. They travelled the globe -- Asia, Africa, New Zealand, New York, Paris. *sigh* They owned their own airplane, they had a lovely get-away cabin on a private island, and the world was their oyster. Lucy was one of those people who was definitely inside the candy store. Her daughter was not crazy about this fellow because he's a big game hunter, and her daughter is the director of an ecological society. He had a large polar bear hide covering the floor of one of their guest rooms and Lucy's daughter was horrified about that. There was some butting of heads -- but over time they grudgingly accepted each other.
Last night I received a call no friend likes to receive -- Lucy and her husband are divorcing.
"What happened...!?"
"It just didn't work out."
I am sad for her, she had such hopes at the beginning of their relationship. Lucy says she has no regrets, and she had a good twelve years. Sometimes we never know what life has in store. We should enjoy the moment because it is really all we have. There are no guarantees, no matter how much we wish for them, and sometimes that's okay.
11 comments:
That's awful. It must have been a real blow to hear. :(
Sigh -sorry for the bad news you got, Jo - so true, life has no guarantees - even if you live in a candy store! Thanks for reminding me to enjoy today!
I am sad for your friend but happy for the new and hopefully exciting opportunities that await her.
Sometimes the best things in life happen after a tragedy.
Sounds like you are a good listener for your friend and a good listener is always hard to find.
Well, looking on the bright side, it would appear that hubby #2 was a well-heeled guy. Divorce could be costly for him perhaps?
I've been married 51 years (to the same girl!) and in the event of one of us departing I would not be seeking another.
Oops, I've left myself open to: "So once is enough, eh?"
It was too good to be true - as they say.
The last paragraph of your post teaches us something very important about life, and we should keep it in mind.
No guarantees. Indeed that's true. But that's no reason not to take a chance.
Oh your poor friend, Jo. I guess that things that aren't permanent can still have a lot of value in life, so there is that.
I find no silver lining in divorce. I am very sorry for your friend. It's true that nothing is guaranteed in life but call a spade a spade. Divorce is a trauma and a tragedy. At least in this case, there does not appear that any children will suffer from the break up.
Greenpanda, yes, I felt so sad for her.
Jeannette, yes, today is all we have. I thought for sure they would be together forever.
Russell, yes, I think a new life opens up for her. And yes, you know the old saying, give someone lemons, and they can make lemonade.
Philip, *heh* It's wonderful to see someone who has been together for that long. I always wish that for everyone.
DUTA, yes, as folks sometimes say, never say never...
Charles, yes, I agree. We live for today.
Alane, we never know what is around the bend, do we?
LGS, no, but they have a blended family, so it is going to be very difficult for everyone involved. I hope she will be okay. I'm sure she will.
Some eternities are shorter than others. I hope your friend heals quickly and well. (And I side with Lucy's daughter on the hunting issue.)
Life is full of surprises isn't it. It is great to have a best friend to go through these things with. I am sure she appreciates your friendship very much, during this difficult time.
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