Welcome to 2017, where everyone has an opinion and the loudest opinions are the ones that matter.
Four days ago, comedian Patton Oswalt confirmed that he’d become engaged to actress Meredith Salenger. This was a lovely if bittersweet revelation for those of us who’d followed Oswalt’s journey recovering from the sudden death of his wife Michelle McNamara—the result of an undiagnosed heart condition mixing with the sleeping pills she'd been taking. It was a difficult year for Oswalt, who spent it publicly discussing his grief in a series of heartfelt posts and interviews. It was an inspiring display of courage, resilience, and healing for others who'd experienced loss.
But because it took 15 months for Oswalt to go from widower to fiancé, people were offended. Oswalt has chosen to respond to their offence by sharing a blog post entitled “A Widow's Rage Defense Against Patton Oswalt's Engagement” penned by Erica Roman.
Roman identifies with Oswalt’s struggle and grief as well, and her piece is a well-considered yet justifiably angry take on when judgment should give quarter to compassion. “This is so amazing. And SO well-written,” said Oswalt of the post. He added: “Erica articulated it better than I could have ever hoped. So there you go.”
Props to you, Erica.
Michelle McNamara, the comedian's late wife, was a highly-regarded crime writer who famously pursued the EARONS, who was, among other things, a notorious serial killer. Information on the case can be found at this resource, though it isn't for the faint of heart.
