I Carry Your Heart in Mine: Creating a Meaningful Life after the Death of a Spouse

If you or someone you care about has experienced the death of a spouse, you'll find this slim but powerful book to be an invaluable companion through the soul-searing, sometimes bewildering aftermath of loss. Written by someone who has been through deep waters himself, I Carry Your Heart offers an unvarnished but ultimately transformative view into the process of grief, as lived and told by a keen observer of his own struggles and story.

From the first shockwaves of grief to the later complications of getting on with life, the author shares his first-hand experience and the many helpful discoveries he makes along the way. He does it with rare honesty and vulnerability, furnishing a wealth of insights into life after loss. From many months of candid conversations, he has also gathered stories from various others (mostly men, some women) and offers them up with warmth, wisdom, and humor.

As you follow his story, you'll find, as Mr. Roskopf did himself, that you are not alone. Feeling suddenly and painfully out of place in your own life is common – a natural human response to profound loss. But feelings of isolation and habits of isolation are two different things. You'll also witness the value of what the author calls "tribal therapy," the informal, unscripted, but regular meetings of a "band of brothers" who have suffered similar loss.

Chapter topics include talking with your children, dealing with well-meaning but unhelpful friends, replacing debilitating habits with healthy routines, drawing on the power of faith, and other significant issues wrapped up in insightful nuggets of wisdom called Little Ohs.

If you've lost your partner in life, you know things will never be the same. But that doesn't mean your future has to be a second casualty. I Carry Your Heart explores the difference between grief that paralyzes and grief that grows into a re-embracing of life, even happiness. If you're looking for an accessible resource that can help you better understand and survive after the loss of a spouse, I Carry Your Heart is indispensable collection of stories, personal and practical insights, and inspiration.

John F. Roskopf retired after a 45-year career in finance and risk management, most recently focusing on risk management issues in higher education. He has spoken frequently on organizational strategy, leadership and creativity and has published numerous articles on risk management. John received a B.S. from Quincy University and an M.B.A. from Loyola University. He is the father of two and grandfather of four.Jill Schoeneman-Parker, Psy. D. received her doctorate from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology with a specialization in Abuse and Trauma. Additionally, she trained in art therapy at George Washington University following her studies at Wellesley College. She is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 20 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. Jill is a former Director of CampCare, a bereavement day camp for children and adolescents and worked as an Educational Therapist with emotionally disturbed children. At present, Jill maintains a private practice in Skokie, IL. When she is not working with her clients, she loves spending time with her family, taking pottery classes, gardening, walking her dog, and hunting for sea glass at the beach.