My wife died suddenly, leaving me with four children—after the funeral, my mother-in-law gave me a sealed box that revealed a message my wife left behind for me.

eventually get easier.

The knock came just after three in the afternoon.

I expected a neighbor, or maybe one of Sarah’s friends checking on the kids.

Instead, I opened the door to find my mother-in-law standing on the porch, holding a small wooden box against her chest.

“Can I come in?” she asked, though she was already stepping past me.

I closed the door continue reading …