I understand if you answer “Yes” to the question; “Are You a Jealous Widow?”  As a widow, I still have times where I find it hard to watch other couples. How I miss holding hands and enjoying the quiet couple time when we are together.  Yes, we used to be like that and I still want it – how unfair life seems and Yes, I still get jealous even though it has been almost 15 years since Donnie’s death. I still feel a bit jealous when I see couples sharing their days and planning their vacations.  Couples that communicate with just a look or a touch, an understanding and comfort that comes from being together as one. It’s easy to resent others that are venting about their difficult spouse.  In my head a little voice is saying, “I’d trade with you any day.”  I feel a little ashamed of my lack of compassion for their marriage troubles, but it’s still hard to be sympatric when I’m alone and they have each other. Why do we feel jealous?  It is true that when grieving we may feel insecure, unloved and lonely.  Jealousy can overtake your mind and threaten your friendships.  It’s also true that it is hard to listen to others complain about things that seem petty and unimportant compared to our loss. Have patience with yourself as it’s natural to compare your life with others, but slowly the jealousy and resentment will fade.  It may never go away, but it should stop being a direct hit to your heart. Bit by bit you’ll find patience and strength.  Life will settle into a “single” path and you will enjoy the company of couples more – even those that complain about anything and everything! For me, it’s gotten better over the years but I still find myself looking at couples with a touch of longing.  It’s a bit strange because I have no desire to date or get into a relationship, but I guess after all those years of marriage it’s something that I still miss in my daily life.