Elderly Man Alone at Lunch Sits Across from Wife's Ashes, Weeps into Napkin
Valentine’s Day is one of those holidays that most happy couples look forward to celebrating. The cards, candies, and teddy bears are sweet reminders of the love two people share for one another.
Even coupled cynics might grouse that it’s a Hallmark Holiday, created merely to wring more money out of the sentimental masses. To them, it’s just another day.
For others who are lonely and single, sometimes it’s just another day to drown in romantic sorrow. Whether they have never had a consistent partner or are missing a special someone, the day can be a cutting reminder of what they do not have.
One woman living in Corpus Christi, Texas, captured one of these heartbreaking moments while eating out on Feb. 14.
In a viral Facebook post, Chasidy Gwaltney detailed her experience. “I saw something today that has made me remember that we won’t always have each other to hold, talk to, love, play with or even just aggravate every now and then,” she said.
That very thought was prompted by of a male customer she saw eating at a booth. On his table sat two plates, two sets of silverware, and two glasses of white wine.
There was also a card positioned right next to a clear bottle. At first glance, it appeared as if the man were eating alone.
But, upon further investigation, Gwaltney noticed that the bottle was his date. It held the ashes of his late wife.
“Apparently his love for her was and still is very strong as he takes her ashes out for a Valentine’s lunch date together,” she wrote. “He even bought her a glass of wine….”
A photo of the grieving man accompanied Gwaltney’s heartfelt message. It illustrated just how precious life is, especially when you have someone special to share it with.
Cherishing every little second with loved ones is what’s truly important in life, whether it means giving just one more “goodbye kiss” or saying I love you. Yet, everyone is “guilty of taking our other half for granted from time to time.”
The unidentified man weeping into his napkin was enough to move more than 317,000 emotional Facebookers who liked the image. One commenter sincerely wrote, “Dear Lord please comfort his precious soul.”
In her final statement, Gwaltney gave this advice: “Please love your Sweetheart while you have the opportunity, you never know what tomorrow will bring or take away! Happy Valentine’s Day All!!!”
If this story reminded you of the people you dearly love, make sure to share it with them.
Tell people how you feel. Remind them that they are valued. Forget yourself for a while and go do something for someone else.
You never know what someone else is struggling with at any given point, but showing kindness is always the right choice.
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