LOVE FOR ROSIE

Our very own Rosie Green returned to Red in our June issue, but this time she wrote movingly and honestly about heartbreak after her husband (and long-time love) left and ‘declined to leave a forwarding address’. We were so touched by the flurry of emails, tweets and Instagram comments sharing support, advice and warm words for Rosie.

Margaret Geale wrote, ‘I read Rosie Green’s poignant article with empathy. I divorced my first husband 40 years ago, as we were totally incompatible. I had the problems of rejection and feeling worthless that Rosie mentions, but that was muted by relief that I was out of a bad marriage. Ten years later, I met and married a wonderful man and our marriage lasted 29 years, only ending with his death from complications due to a massive stroke last year. All was destroyed in an instant.

‘Rosie’s description of “walking around not feeling held by the surety of love” is so true and so painful. It’s the little things that are so hard to deal with, such as a leaking pipe in the central heating, which my late husband would have dealt with so effortlessly. I am sure there are many people who have read Rosie’s article and empathise with her, whether due to divorce or widowhood. The pain is the same, as is the loss of a happy marriage. Thank you, Rosie, for sharing your pain with us – you are not alone.’

One comment on Instagram summed up how we all felt: ‘Wow, what an incredible bravery to share your story. Your writing has a special magic that makes the reader really feel you are one of their friends. I hope you will be wrapped up in the warmth of not just your real-life friends, but the love from those whose lives your words have touched for many years. Wishing you much strength and a whole heap of fun as you navigate the next chapter.’