Dear Hurting Friend,

I know you are going through a hard time -- loss of spouse via divorce, loss of house via moving, loss of money (see other two losses) --can all be devastating. In your time of need, you called me and I have tried to be loving, patient, and concerned during your turmoil. Not once I have spoken of me or anything going on in my life, knowing that one day you will be whole again and we can really talk. I have made efforts to keep you focused, keeping you from that dark black hole of loneliness you enjoy, and keep you talking about your situation -- that is why I call you weekly. But, now you resent my calls and my concern. You have decided that I am intrusive and insecure because I haven't heard from you in over a week and want to know what is happening with you! Geez, you could be locked in a dark room refusing to come out (it has happened before), you could be hurt by your now drug-using ex-husband (have no idea what he would do!), or you could be pre-occupied by keeping really busy (a new concept). How am I to know if you don't return my calls in over a week?!

Ok, you finally called -- angry, but you called. I now know you are moving forward, focusing 100% you, and not realizing who you are hurting while you heal. That is OK, because you need to heal but I don't need to be hurt while you heal. I will not call again, but I will occassionally think of you and wish you the best. Maybe one day you will come back to me as my "whole friend", the person I knew before all this happened. Maybe not. Take care, friend.