A Cheerleader Romance

Some might call it a fairytale – or a miracle – or a fantasy. Whatever term might be applicable to what I am about to relate is left to the reader. One could say it is just another love story like those that have been tried and tested in romance novels for years, and who needs more of the same? As you will see – this is not an ordinary “boy meets girl” situation. In my time-honored past I had experienced what many couples lived and loved through – the flirtation, the fast-beating heart, the wedding, the children, and, yes, even the grandchildren. My life revolved around my family. Then the sadness and loneliness of widowhood became a reality. I had been married for fifty-six years when my husband died of cancer. His last two years were the hardest as his body began to slowly deteriorate. On the morning that he drew his last breath, I had to be convinced by my sons that their dad was gone. Death is so final. Yet, it can be difficult to accept even though the oxygen tank has been turned off and the health nurse confirms what is known to be true. Do not ever overestimate the value of friends – the friends who are there when one needs someone to talk to or to quietly share in one’s grief. How kind neighbors can be when a helping hand is needed to replenish the food supply for the bereaved household. Enough cannot be said about my church family. A loving pastor and faithful flock have been there for me during both sad and happy times. Yes, God is good. Three years later the sun still rose in the morning and set in the evening. Time had helped heal my grief. Then, in the eightieth decade of my existence, BANG, I fell in love again. Previously, I would have thought it improbable to experience love and longing enjoyed by young romantics, but little did I know what was ahead for me. A second chance for happiness was just around the corner.