Just posted: Dating Advice for (Young) Widowers. Excerpt: When I started to date after the death of my first wife, I wanted to talk with someone who had found themselves in a similar situation. I wanted to know about their dating experiences and how they handled awkward situations that may have arisen. Unfortunately I had no one talk with and was left to work things out for myself. But my dating experiences did teach me some things and I've decided to share them in hopes they can be helpful to others. (If there are young widows who read this and find it helpful, please let me know. I'm curious to know whether or not the same issues apply.)
1. When you decide to date again is up to you
I started dating five months after my first wife died. Too soon? I know some friends and family who thought so. But five months was when I felt ready to at least test the dating waters. In reality there's no time frame when one should start dating again. Grieving and moving on is a process that is unique to each person. Some people take years, others weeks, and then there are those who choose never to date again. Whatever you do, don't let others tell you you're moving to fast or waiting too long. Make sure it's something you're really ready to do before you take that step.