I never realized how difficult it would be. When my husband was ill and I was constantly on demand, I longed for solitude and peace. Being by myself meant freedom, a holiday of sorts, and I welcomed it. But it is so very different now. He died only five months ago. It may be too short a time to assess my situation. My life has changed suddenly in so many ways; change with consequences that I am only beginning to be aware of. My husband was the type who rarely delegated responsibility to me. I believe there were multiple reasons for that trait.