My heart is heavy today. As the rest of the world rejoices with loved ones on this romantic holiday, I find myself paralyzed by grief. My body aches and my focus is stuck on the February of 2019.
For Valentine’s Day three years ago, Brady gave me a mason jar filled with small pieces of paper with heartfelt compliments and encouraging words written on them. During this season in early 2019, I struggled with depression and found myself filled with fear as I could see the unknown lurking on the horizon. Instead of lecturing or condemning me for my hopelessness, Brady responded in love. He gave me words of comfort when all I felt was pain.
I revisited this jar again today. As I read the sweet words my dear Brady wrote years ago, I found myself smiling and crying at the same time. I have never met a kinder or more selfless human, and I am so grateful to have married such a compassionate man. At the same time, I grieve because the man I married is no longer physically with me.
Though our time together was short, Brady helped me see what it means to love. He prioritized my wishes over his own. He cared for my emotional and spiritual needs even when he had no energy himself. And, he generously affirmed me even while his body deteriorated on his deathbed. He loved others without expecting anything in return; Brady truly loved with the Spirit of Jesus.
I hope that one day I will be able to love others half as well as Brady Hunker loved me. On this Valentine’s Day, I thank my God for the gift of love that has been given to me through that marvelous man, and I pray that I would be able to show the world that love which ultimately comes from my Father above.
Dear Mollie: Moments ago, I met you on FB. Your story sounded interesting and I was curious what you had to say. I’m filled with gratitude to have listened to your story as it is God’s beacon of love, hope, generosity, grace and pain. Firstly, I am so very sorry for your great loss. May Brady’s name always be for a blessing to those who knew and loved him. Secondly, you’re not afraid to let us in. That’s strength and courage and trust and healing. I don’t know that could do that. Well, in fact, I didn’t. I had cancer in 2008 and was dying. I wanted to just keep my health private. My Rabbi insisted that I put myself on the temple’s healing list and use my given, English name for that list. I guess he knew that I’d use my Hebrew name and continue to remain anonymous. I didn’t want to answer questions or look anyone in the eyes … but I did it and God led me through it all. May God bless you, Mollie.
Mollie, my dear, so many of us go through life and never experience the type of love that you and Brady shared. There are people who have been married for years and still have not experience that kind of true love. I love your story and the fact that you are willing to share your thoughts and emotions with others that they may grow in love for God through your journey. Much love to you and keep your strength and faith in God.