2007-04-26 05:42:00 · 13 answers · asked by Jonathan J 1 in Society & Culture ➔ Etiquette
Basically, you must follow your heart. There are so many variables to take into consideration- your relationship with the deceased (the kind of marriage you had), health issues, and family matters . . .
Whatever it takes to find peace and happiness in your life is first and foremost, but talk it over with children (if you're fortunate enough to have them and they're old enough to be able to discuss such a charged issue) and respect their needs but be sure they know that you're not 'replacing' their parent, but looking to improve the quality of your life (and a happier parent will improve the quality of THEIR lives, too!)
2007-04-26 07:00:08 · answer #1 · answered by jazz_lark 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
There is no set amount of time, but you should not accept invitations to dates if you don't feel comfortable yet.
If you want to ask out someone who has recently been widowed, make sure it's been a few months and that the widow(er) seems to be outgoing and back to his or her own personality. Then ask gently, and be as un-creepy as possible. Try something nonthreatening, like lunch or coffee instead of dinner, which is a high-pressue dating situation. Feel the person out and see if they are really ready to date again or if the conversation centers on the deceased partner; be prepared to just be friends and don't put a lot of pressure on them. The widowed person will appreciate your ability to respect his or her feelings and think higher of you becaue of it.
2007-04-26 09:29:41 · answer #2 · answered by Mysterious Gryphon 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
My father took about 13 months, but it totally turned his life around. My husband took 3 months until we met. It really depends on the person and the mourning process. Some people move on more quickly than others. My father in law still can't get the hang of dating after 3 years.
2007-04-26 06:40:14 · answer #3 · answered by chefgrille 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
In times long gone, there was an approved mourning period. In modern times, there is not set time. It is all a matter of personal choice. However, I do think (a) the body needs to be "cold", (b) the funeral is over, (c) the death is recorded, (d) any children of the union are settled into the situation, before begining to date.
2007-04-26 05:50:05 · answer #4 · answered by Carol D 5 · 1⤊ 1⤋
If you have no children I say anytime you have made peace with yourself and comfortable with the fact that this loved one has moved on and you are ready to find another bit of love. This means you are starting a new chapter in your life go for it. If of course you have children you have to make sure that they have accepted the passing and have dealt with their grief, and are comfortable with you moving on. If you don't do this they will resent you, and you all will have lots of problems. Good luck to you.
2007-04-26 06:28:02 · answer #5 · answered by deadra m 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
When you want to. People will have something to say regardless. This is if you don't have kids.
With kids--at least 6 months, or give it a year. They are mourning the loss of their mother and you need to be with them.
2007-04-26 05:51:32 · answer #6 · answered by Rainer 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
When you fell it is the right time to. Not just when a hot girl walks past you. When you feel like it is the right time to move on with your life just take your time and you'll know when it is the right time. Don't worry just slow down and think.
2007-04-26 05:52:43 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
10 years of mourning following death
2007-04-26 05:47:32 · answer #8 · answered by joyce 5 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Whenever it is that the one who is left is mentally, emotionally, and spiritually ready. I have seen instances where it was a matter of months and I have seen instances where people never want to date again
2007-04-26 06:59:53 · answer #9 · answered by Church Music Girl 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Although the vague answer is usually "whenever you feel you can", out of respect, I would wait six months
2007-04-26 06:38:39 · answer #10 · answered by Experto Credo 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋