I have often struggled with longing for things I could not have but during my divorce… longing increased.
I longed to reconcile with my husband.
I longed to remove my past mistakes.
I longed for a perfect future.
Longing left my heart heavy… its strong, persistent yearning could not be fulfilled.
Sometimes, things would happen that would allow me for a moment to believe that maybe… just maybe… if I yearned for something long enough that my own self-will would make it happen… yet… it never did.
Longing was becoming an emotional stumbling block that was getting in the way of my day-to-day life.
It became hard to focus on my work, my friendships, my family… I was constantly consumed by my desire… my longing.
It is hard to let go of what we “long” for… but if it is stopping us from moving forward in our lives, from the work we need to do in the present, then we must find a way to let it go.
“Dear God, help me to appreciate my life today. Help me to see that to love the things I have is to truly be thankful for God’s abundance and grace.”
Daily Divorce Meditations 
I agree and have had those feelings, especially longing to turn the clock back and maybe have done some things better, or differently. The longing for my marriage is fading, but I still long for the partnership and stability. Thank you — it’s a strong reminder to work at being, and staying, in the present.
I was triggered the other day. A good friend was sharing about going camping with her husband – I remembered how when I was first married, we had many dreams of doing those things together. My friend’s happy lifestyle gave me pangs of sadness. Your post is so true. I needed to read it. 🙂
Yes… I totally understand and remember feeling that way about my friends who were couples. One of my friends was going to Hawaii with her husband during my divorce and wanted me to go bathing suit shopping with her… I went but, I could barely stand it.
Thank you a million times, its like you know my heart!
Hang in there, Lisa. I’m so glad you are finding comfort and connection in these words. I’m here for you! D.