You Live, You Learn…
This past year was a year of intense personal growth for me. If I told you that I didn’t spend alot of last year questioning my sanity, my self worth, my everything, I’d be lying. I no longer feel like the same woman I used to be. I’ve learned alot this past year.
The girl friends I’ve made over the years all have one thing in common - a gentle strength and refreshing resiliancy. I couldn’t have gotten through this past year without their inspiration. They’ve taught me to trust my instincts. In turn, I learned I’m smarter than what I give myself credit for. And I’m stronger too. Much stronger emotionally than I every thought.
I’ve learned that sometimes you have to let go. Sometimes, you have hold on. Sometimes, you have to ask for help. Sometimes you have to give it. Sometimes you have to let go of beliefs you’ve held onto for years. Sometimes you have to create new ones. Sometimes you want to give someone a solid kick in the butt. But sometimes its YOU who needs it. But always. You always need to be true to yourself.
There’s anxiety in change. But there’s also opportunity and hope. And if you keep your mind, heart and eyes open? Who knows what will happen.
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By Mirinda, March 20, 2009 @ 4:56 pm
I felt the need to visit your blog today and I’m glad I did! I’m so happy you are doing better and pray so many blessings come your way, girl. (((((HUGS))))
By kat, March 20, 2009 @ 6:43 pm
Wow. What a year. It sounds like you are a stronger better person for it. I always tell people that everything happens for a reason, and that our hardships and struggles and heartbreaks make us stronger. I think mostly, they just want to punch me in the face when I talk like that. But I really think it is true.
Thank you for such a raw, honest post.
By cagey, March 20, 2009 @ 7:54 pm
As you said: “I learned that sometimes you have to let go. Sometimes, you have hold on. Sometimes, you have to ask for help. Sometimes you have to give it. Sometimes you have to let go of beliefs you’ve held onto for years. Sometimes you have to create new ones. Sometimes you want to give someone a solid kick in the butt. But sometimes its YOU who needs it. But always. You always need to be true to yourself.”
Words to live by. Words to live by…..
By flutter, March 20, 2009 @ 10:59 pm
beautiful things are on your horizon.
By Traceytreasure, March 21, 2009 @ 12:07 am
I’m so proud of you. You have been through so much…
Hugs!!
By HollowSquirrel, March 21, 2009 @ 12:19 am
Beautifully written. Love you.
By Mrs. Schmitty, March 21, 2009 @ 3:30 am
What a great post. I hope things are on the way up for you. Hugs!!
By Linda, March 21, 2009 @ 4:36 am
Wow. The “mobile home tossed around by a tornado” hits home for me too — a perfect description.
I have to say you have held it together a LOT better than I have, with everything you’ve had on your plate. You really have done an extraordinary job keeping all the balls in the air, and I’m glad you’ve had a support system through it all. You have the tools in your toolbox now in case you ever need them again.
There may not be a medal for you, but there SHOULD be! A “Mom Who Deserves A Hug and A Vacation, Not Necessarily In That Order” Medal!!
Hugs –
By Suebob, March 21, 2009 @ 8:36 pm
Sometimes the toughest stuff is the way we learn the most…I wish it were otherwise, but that seems to be life.
Congratulations on realizing your strengths amid crisis.
By Daisy, March 22, 2009 @ 12:07 am
Many hugs to you. You’ve coped with stresses that would have sidelined a weaker person.
By Nancy R, March 22, 2009 @ 6:18 pm
I can’t wait to hear what’s on the horizon!
By zookeeper, March 22, 2009 @ 7:17 pm
It sounds like you have learned a lot over this past year. And I think we could all learn a lot from you. Awesome post!
By abunslife, March 23, 2009 @ 5:12 pm
You are a strong, courageous woman, and I am so proud of you and all you have learned and endured. hugs.
By Mom, March 23, 2009 @ 6:11 pm
Lisa, Dad and I are very proud of you.
By mayberry, March 23, 2009 @ 7:06 pm
Good for you for recognizing your many many strengths! I think you DO deserve that medal.
By Tuesday, March 23, 2009 @ 11:41 pm
I have had that year and it certainly kicks your butt. Hang in there, there is nowhere to go but up.
By Beth, March 24, 2009 @ 6:30 pm
Outstanding post, m’dear. Just what I needed to read today.
By Jakki, March 24, 2009 @ 8:05 pm
If you ever thought you werent strong, emotionaly or physically…lady you listed a lot of thing here that yes, millions make it through but even more…don’t. Or give into an easy fix. Hats off to you lady…
By Kelly, March 24, 2009 @ 10:17 pm
I’m sorry to hear that you’ve had a rough year. Here’s a prayer that the next year will be much, much happier for you.
By Ree, March 25, 2009 @ 2:14 am
I’d say you’ve learned the secret of life. Much love to you.
By Shannon, March 25, 2009 @ 6:11 pm
You clearly are a woman of substance as my mom would say. (Her highest compliment and I agree.) You’ve not only endured a hellish year, but have found wisdom and strength from it. Your post is well-timed and I took strength from your statement “There’s anxiety in change. But there’s also opportunity and hope.” I’ve had a year of ups and downs and way too much stress. I’m turning the corner now and although anxious about what’s to come, know there’s a lot to be grateful and hopeful for. Thanks for the reminder!
By Shannon (a.k.a. Believer in Balance), March 25, 2009 @ 6:12 pm
P.S. That last comment is from your long lost BlogHer buddy who used to write Believer in Balance, and occasionally still does.
By Farrell, March 25, 2009 @ 6:36 pm
You ARE stronger and smarter than you used to believe. I’m glad you see that now:)
ALWAYS trust your instincts.
Best wishes for 2009. May many more lessons be learned (as is necessary for growth), and may none of them be as difficult as last year’s.
By Sugared Harpy, March 25, 2009 @ 7:11 pm
Oh sweets. You are one of the brightest, amazing women I know. Thank you for always sharing where you are, because it helps us all through.
By Carrie, March 26, 2009 @ 5:48 am
You have been on a ride this year for sure…and you’re one of the strongest women I “know” out here in the great, big blogosphere. I hope you know what a rock you are Lisa - and I’m so, so in awe of your strength and beauty, from being a mom to being a fighter.
By Liz@thisfullhouse, March 26, 2009 @ 3:12 pm
You are a true inspiration, my friend.
By Shutter Bitch, March 31, 2009 @ 1:28 pm
You have survived a lot. I’m so glad you are beginning to see the woman some of your biggest fans have seen you to be. You are a rockstar, and you are Awesome. Smooch!
By Monkey's Momma, April 2, 2009 @ 2:59 am
Great post! You have been through a lot this year! Sending you some hugs {{}}