The last few weeks I have been absent for a variety of reasons, the main one being health issues. I have a serious issue with my thyroid. Nothing that can't be treated successfully, in fact I'm damn lucky it is what it is. But the side effects of the thyroid issues have wreaked havoc with my body physically and mentally.
Depression really hit hard for a few weeks, taking me to a dark place that I could have never pulled myself out of alone.
Being a part of this community has brought so much to my life. I have found quality friendships here over the years. There are some who turned out to not be who I thought they were, but what matters are treasured friends here who have held me up when I was down. Those folks have passed on valuable lessons and resources (I'll share one here) to deal with hurts and disappointments.
That brings me to the gratitude part of this post. There are many people here who have been put in my path over the years. As of late, I am deeply grateful for the friends who called and emailed. A simple email that says, "your absence has been noticed and it matters," means so much.
My husband is a courageous man who made a lot of changes in his life to be a healthier, and consequently, a happier person. Those life decisions brought him an immense amount of pain, judgement, betrayal, condemnation and disrespect in ways he did not deserve.
As a result of his decisions I found my best friend and the love of my life.
Today we look forward to not just growing old together, but growing each day in love and friendship, another part of my life I am so grateful for.
He, my daughters, my family, and friends have been my saving grace the last few weeks.
The song below I dedicate to all of you who have been a part of my life, the good and the bad, to those who care about me and appreciate the person I am, and even for those who don't. Each of you have taught me lessons and helped me grow in some aspect of my life.
Most of all I dedicate it to my husband and my daughters, you are my living proof that it's okay to love. No matter who sets out to tear us apart, let them be miserable and try, it cannot be done.
Love and courage always prevail.
The words not only convey a message, the video alone is moving and carries it's own strong message.