Thankfulness

I would be telling a lie if I said that I had nothing to be thankful for.

I'm thankful for my parents who have been there for me every step since my husband lost his mind and walked out of our marriage. They were there when the police were called, when Paul and I were screaming at each other, when it was time to pack up my things and when I couldn't breathe from crying so hard. They gave me a place to live. They gave me love and they prayed. Not just for me, but for for Paul, too. If not for them, this story could have gone quite differently.

I'm thankful for this turkey who has listened, commiserated and reminded me that it DOES get better. She's my cousin through marriage, but she's my friend forever.

I'm thankful for this weirdo who has been where I am a few times before and has a few years experience on me. He's flirted with me, told me I was beautiful and made me feel that maybe there's hope for me yet.

I'm thankful for this one who is my very best friend and always tells me like it is (even if it hurts). He's listened to me cry, scream and completely lose my cool. He's known more of the details that I did at times and reminded me that there are brighter days ahead.


I'm thankful for Paul. For the man who used to be completely out of his mind in love with me. Who held me while I slept and kissed every morning before he went to work. I'm thankful that I had the chance to love someone with all my heart, even if it was only for a while. He'll never know just how much I did love him... and love him still. Thank you, Paul, for letting me be part of your life and the lives of your children and family. You'll all be in my heart forever.

But most of all... I'm thankful to God who has given me the strength to continue when I didn't want to. Who loves me in spite of myself.

And I'm thankful for you, whoever you are, who reads these words and prays for me.

Love,
Shannon