Thank You.

As I am sitting here, trying to find the words to describe how the past few days have made me feel, I am truly awestruck by the amount of love, support and kindness the world has chosen to give me.  Sharing a story, big or small, is a terrifying thing- you open yourself up to the mercy of the world and all the opinions they are entitled to hold.

 I did exactly this when I chose to share my story. I left myself vulnerable to the skepticism and criticism of the world, only to have my expectations blown away and fears shattered as you all opened your hearts and poured out your love, graciously. I have never experienced anything like this, and my heart is so full because of it.

The tears have flowed, my friends. From the bottom of my heart, I cannot thank you all enough for loving me regardless of my story, of my past, and of my failures. I know you all think my story is doing the helping, but the truth is, your responses are what is helping me. Don’t get me wrong, I am so thankful that my story has shed a light in an area of darkness and I am so grateful that it hits home for many; I have truly loved reading all the stories that have been sent to me. But, while I am told I am the one doing the helping, the beauty of this whole outcome, is that the people doing the real helping, is you. I was terrified to tell my story, but you all have made me feel brave for speaking my truth, and for that I am forever grateful. Maybe you do not see the value in this gift that you have given me, but I do, and I am so very thankful for it. 

There is so much value and emotion in being loved for exactly who you are.

Thank you for choosing love. Thank you for being brave and for sharing your own stories. And thank you for seeing something in me that I was unable to see in myself.

I am so very proud.