Widows who are grieving often start wearing a mask of "I'm okay" when they spend time with others.  But within their home they are secretly sad, lonely and are hurting. For many widow's therapy helps because its a safe place to express their feelings. Some also have a renewed religious faith that is a major factor in their healing. Exercise, a good diet, friends etc. are all good, but what really matters is realizing that you are going to still have a broken heart and what matters is how you deal with it. It takes time but it helps if you actively work at training yourself to think more positively.  As widows describe their new lives, it's clear from what they say, that change is hard work. Even when you make mistakes, they will be your mistakes.  Owning them and standing tall inside yourself despite your errors will help strengthen your trust in your own inner voice.  The more you trust yourself, the stronger and more confident you will become. Widows of all generations, in all walks of life, are looking, as I am, to lessen their sadness.  We are all on the same path.  As widows we need to stand up and share our deepest regrets and most painful memories.  Be candid about what we are secretly sad about.