Thanks Sarah! We’re growing together! xo

I agree that it’s much harder to show emotions and be vulnerable.That takes a lot more strangth and courage. Grief is grief. I think losing parents or anyone we care about sticks with us for years to come. You’ve been wise to allow yourself to accept it and move through it. It is amazing how that makes us feel better.

Thank you so much for your kind words. It means a lot! Much love to you!

How about maybe next time you are caught in a rainstorm, you put down an umbrella and embrace getting entirely soaking wet? I dare anyone to try it. I guarantee it will give you a new perspective on things, and make you think about what really matters. And what we all “worry about”.

I have not been through what Laura has been through this past year. Not even close. And although I wish she had not had to deal with everything she has gone through, I am in awe of her ability to to find a way to focus on the good things she has learned and experienced. We all need to tap into this. She is an inspiration.

And even better, she has been willing to allow the pain and sadness and anger into her experience…. tantrums included! That is fantastic. Being “strong” does not mean being stoic or trying to push aside feelings of despair. That actually is detrimental. Being strong is allowing those feelings in… and letting them out. And not being afraid of them.

A similar parallel in my own life, but on a different level… I’m sure many of you reading this has lost a parent, or both. To this day, twelve years later, I occasionally am hit by a memory that comes out of nowhere, reminding me of my dad. At first I often tried to keep a “stiff upper lip”. But that only made things worse. When I acknowledged my pain, and let it out, only then was I able to find comfort within myself. It’s not a case of “moving on”…. but rather, acknowledging the pain (and any other emotions) so that you can find peace and appreciate good memories as well as all the “little things” that so often seem insignificant.

Let me tell you… those “little things” are what often give our lives meaning and importance.

Thank you, Laura, for sharing your journey through this scary and horrible experience. I am so glad you are doing well. Please know that you are a hero and inspiration to so very many of us.

Much love.