Words Fail

I had the pleasure of interviewing Christian recording artist, Crystal Lewis a few years ago. We talked about one of the many albums she has recorded. One of the songs spoke of a family that had lost someone so very close to them. She said one profound statement, "Words fail". In fact, in one of her songs, she talks about how when you're at loss for the words to say, just sing.

I'm usually not at loss for words...at least, not often. But, today, I was. I had spent my Christmas with an outstanding couple. They had celebrated their 44 years of marriage together. They truly seemed like lovebirds. She completed him and he completed her. There was joy and laughter while in their presence. I thought to myself, "If only Boo and I make it to 44 years and still have such a love and trust and friendship...."

Today, she told me that after 44 years, she was divorcing him. He had only been dishonest one time, 20 years ago, in their marriage and she let him know then that the next time he was dishonest, she was divorcing him. For years, he has been gambling away their money. In fact, what she does know is that $100,000.00 has been accounted for as gone. She suspects that it may be even worse than what she realizes. She has trusted him with every fiber of her being. She dreamed dreams of being with him as they grew old together. She looked forward to being able to use their savings on enjoying one another until it was time to say goodbye.

She shared with me that she has no place to go. He has complete control of whatever may be left of their savings. He has the car. He pays the bills and he has the retirement and medical insurance. She has nothing. She doesn't even know if she will have a place to live in February.

What could I say? Words failed. But so did singing. There was nothing I could say to bring comfort to her heart. I still don't know what to say. She is 73 years old and her husband is 78. I did tell her that when I found out that my ex had cheated on me when we were married, I knew that I had to make the move to take care of me and that, I did. It was frightening. I cried so many tears, but I made it through.

I just hope that she can as well.