I am, and always have been, a firm believer that all things happen for a reason. We may not always see that reason right away or the reason may be an awful one, but everything works out the way it's supposed to in the end. From a sleepless night to a failed marriage, there is a new door that's opened after the previous is slammed shut and locked- we just need to look more closely for it.
There is always a reason to smile, even in the worst situations. Look to your friends, your pets, your children and families. Count your blessings, and try your best to live each day with laughter in your heart and a clear conscience. Dig deeper- be someone else's ray of sunshine, just as they are yours.
Every road that you've traveled down in the past has led you here. Each experience, every mistake. All the heartbreak, tears, sweat, blood, giggles, hopes and dreams- you are wiser now. You are stronger. You are bruised and scarred and beautiful. You will continue to make mistakes- meet them head on, and use them as learning tools. Remind yourself in difficult times that it WILL get better. Embrace the bad situations- relish them. These make us value the good so much more.
Today is a beautiful day. There is so much good surrounding me that i am thankful for, so much love and hope. There are still rough waters ahead but I feel serene, at peace with myself. I look at all that I've been blessed with- my sons, who continue to amaze me every day. My family (and extended family <3), who I have always had nothing but an outpouring of love and support from. My friends- you guys really are so, so amazing. And a bouquet of purple daisies in a vase on my table.