Yes, I'm blogging again! No, it's not about a beauty product. I'm taking a step away from that for the time being. I've been going through a lot of changes the past couple of months. I feel though these changes have been very difficult on my heart, it was necessary for me to grow. I look back a year ago and I cannot believe the person I was. I have been dealt a difficult hand in life just as many others have. I am no different in having struggles. No different, no better, and no worse. For myself though, I have worked extremely hard to overcome the challenges I face on a daily basis. I work hard so that nobody has to see the struggle. I only want you to see the smile, joy, and laughter. I've gotten really good at this and I am proud of that. I will certainly reach out when I am overwhelmed in whatever way, but I have gotten myself to where I can rely on myself. After all, that's who will be there in the end. Not that this is a bad thing! I think it's a beautiful skill to be able to finally love and rely on yourself. I know there are so many people out there who have my back and I think that is what has given me to strength and encouragement to do this for myself. I know that I have a purpose that I have yet to complete otherwise I wouldn't still be standing here today. I have a renewed hope for a better life. As I heard this morning, "Hope lies in the future, not the present." How true! I am confident in what I have to offer the people in my life and those I've not yet met. I know that life without risk, forgiveness, and love is no life at all.
So, why blog about this now? It's Thanksgiving week and I have been abundantly blessed this past year.I wanted to share this with you. I may not have all the material possessions I would like to have, but I am rich in other areas.
1) I have my health.
2) I have a wonderful family and incredible friends who have shown unconditional love for me.
3) I am warm every night when I go to sleep in a comfortable bed.
4) I have a sweet cat who adores me.
5) I have a wonderful job that I have excelled in.
6) I have an education and the chance to go back to school if I so desire.
7) I never have to go hungry.
8) I have indoor plumbing and a shower.
9) I have a car I love and is reliable. (That is material, BUT is something I appreciate greatly)
10) I am very talented in many ways and can use these talents to help people.
I don't take anything for granted and I think that's one of the reasons I had to go through what I did. I am thankful to be able to sit here on my bed on this beautiful Sunday morning, listening to Vitamin String Quartet, drinking my hazelnut coffee, and watching the cars go by outside. If you think I'm being cheesy, then you don't know my story :) I feel so at peace with myself now. I don't think I've ever felt this way before. Funny how some things work out (funny how some don't). I wish you all a Happy Thanksgiving week. May you be blessed in all ways.
XO-
A
