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Death of Spouse
"For death begins with life's first breath
And life begins at the touch of death"
--John Oxenham
The passing of a loved one is perhaps the most painful event in life. No one
should have to grieve alone. At this time of a loss it is important to surround
yourself with your personal support group who can help console and counsel you
at this time. Your personal support group includes family, friends, coworkers,
neighbors, and your religious community. In some cases you may also wish to
seek the guidance of a professional counselor. In coming to terms with your
loss, you will take some time to recollect your loved one. You can appreciate
the blessings which their presence brought to your life, even if the time they
could stay with you seems to have ended too soon.
"Nothing is so strong as gentleness and
nothing is so gentle as real strength"
--Ralph W. Sockman
With the support of your family and friends you will be able to gather the
strength to complete the necessary details which must be faced by the survivors.
It is advisable that the tasks be divided up if possible between loved ones.
In this manner, the necessary steps can be completed, and no one person bears
the entire burden. It is natural and normal that the pain and grief of the survivors
will take some time to heal. Make full use of your personal support network.
If your spouse dies after you have retired and you are receiving a qualified
joint & survivor annuity on or after 1/1/1999, the pop-up benefit described here applies.
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