Southend U3A

Letter to the Editor - Maureen Rampersaud

April 2011

For the attention of the Editor

Women First Magazine

Dear Ms Rosso,

I just had to write after having a 'light-bulb' moment in response to your article entitled, 'Eat, Pray, Love.'

Actually, I think it was the 'Eat' part that contributed to my husband leaving me in January. He said that he was fed up having nightmares that he was suffocating, only to find that I had rolled on top of him in my sleep.

I moved in with my son, Barry, which was wonderful, because he always appreciated my advice and good taste far more than my husband ever did. I always missed doing Barry's washing and rummaging around in his room while I cleaned it. I think his wife was glad of my company too.

The 'Pray' part came in when I saw her on her knees in silent, but obviously desperate, communication with the Lord. She probably didn't realise that I could see her, but I found that, as the house was 'L' shaped, I could stand on a chair in the spare room with my binoculars and see right into their bedroom. Our family never have secrets, we like to keep everything out in the open.

A week later, Barry announced that I had to move out because he'd been transferred to Siberia; of course, he was devastated to be parted from me. I think it sent his wife over the edge. She kept gazing upwards, whispering, 'Thank you . . . Thank you.'

Since then I was made redundant, but your article has made me see that having no partner, no son, no home and no job could be very positive. It was the kick-start I needed to take a new direction in my life.

I got an amazing deal on my flight to Libya and can't wait to find 'Love' when I get there.

Thank you, 'Women First' for inspiring me.

Yours faithfully,

Irma Loser (Leeds)