It’s probable that most of you reading this blog experienced menopause distress a while ago. Nonetheless, I’m writing about Shmirshky, a book on menopausal trials and tribulations because the similarities of emotions brought on with it and a husband’s retirement are striking. And because––reading this book made me laugh.
Ellen Sarver Dolgen––who prefers to go by “E” because she speaks of the universality of this out of body experience––states, “Whether you’re a woman suddenly losing your keys, your temper or your mind, you have a good reason.” For E, that reason is menopause. For us with retired husbands, the reason is 24/7. Both cause distraction and confusion.
E treats menopause with intelligent empathy and helps readers realize that this shall pass. Even if menopause is a distant memory, you may enjoy reading the book as its lessons and humor are on target for any major life adjustment.
Her advice––don’t hide your emotions under a bush––is particularly relevant for women with retired husbands. A newly retired husband needs to adjust to the situation. His wife deserves the time and empathy to adjust as well, but that is sometimes forgotten. E shares ideas that are also important in retirement adjustment such as how to stop suffering in silence and reach out for advice, companionship and comfort.
Whether you’re 40 or 70, you’re likely to find a message in this book––then you can pass it on to your daughter or daughter-in-law who may find solace in it for another reason. To learn more about Shmirshky or to buy the book, go to www.shmirshky.com. You’ll love it!
