I never was good at handling being alone. One would think that, as an only child I would get used to it. I had my cousins for the first decade living right below me and they were like my brothers and sisters. We played together, fought together and went through childhood together. After they left, I was alone again. Yes, I had other cousins living rather close, but this was different - not having them right there, made the difference to me.

I have been given a list of things I need to take care of every day in her absence; such as taking care of the pets and general household things. We went out to the store and stocked up on quick microwaveable meals to sustain me. One would think that I'm totally useless. Actually, I pride myself on being a good cook - when I want to be. I have things to occupy my time so I'm not dwelling too much on being alone - things such as work and choir responsibilities. But it's when I get home to know that there won't be any wife at home, no wafting smells of what is for dinner, and no welcome kiss that it will come back to me. And especially at night, when I go to bed that she won't be there, reality will set that she is gone and I am alone.

Before you think that I'm a total wuss and can't survive without my wife for a measely 2 weeks. I can. I've done it before, but am not fond of it. My mind wanders about this subject and I wonder if something should happen to my sweetheart and I am left alone for the rest of my life, can I handle it? 

I had the privilege of singing for Sis. Monson's funeral a couple of months ago. It was a sad occasion, seeing our dear loved prophet walking behind the casket of his eternal companion with a very sad look. The service itself was very nice with beautiful music and messages of hope. But still, the look of despair and extreme sadness even when one, such as our prophet knows of the plan of our Heavenly Father and will be reunited once again. In this past General Conference, our prophet expressed how much he missed his dear Francis. I also imagine the nights are the hardest for him. He went on to thank everyone for their prayers and support. He said that he felt of the love and prayers in his behalf.

The temple of The Lord is one of the few places on earth that I know of where the veil is very thin. One can commune with The Lord is His house and feel of His love and of the love of those who have passed. I have felt of their presence many times when I was in the temple. It is where I communicate to my loved  ones who have passed and let them know that I am doing alright. It is where I can know of the great plan and that life does continue after this earth.

And while I am alone and nights come and go, I do miss my loved ones. Knowing that my wife is gone for a short two weeks,  I can call her on my phone, Skype, chat with her. This will make the days go faster until we will be reunited again. Even though there are no phone calls and no Skype, I can still think about my loved ones. I can pray to my Father in Heaven, and I can get the reassurance that they are very near and look forward to our reunion when it is my turn to graduate from earth-life. 

And I, at last come to the realization that I am not really alone after all.