You know, I contemplate the events in my life over and over. Daily. Some part of my trials and challenges surface and require some thought to process and lay to bed time and time again.

I definitely ask Why. So many times. On bad days that question feeds hurt and grief and pain that I can’t quite understand. On good days it lets me look for the blessings that are mine from everything I have faced.

I read from someone else’s story recently that said ‘ one hard time does not exempt us from another’. How very very true. When life seems so unfair as it is, there is always room for more challenges. Always. It seems to happen to people we like and love. It seems to happen when it looks like no more can be taken.

From my perspective they kept on coming without a second to catch my breath from the last. But what is there to be done? I think happiness and joy are worth fighting for. Often that has meant me changing myself. I’ve sought help and I’m forever grateful for the therapist who saw the strength in me and reminded me of it. I’ve fought to find the blessings because they help me see that amongst dark clouds there is always a silver lining. It’s hard to see it straight away. It always takes me some time. But I fight to get there.

I thought life was hard when we just had Lauren. That my friends was a WALK IN THE PARK!!! Hahaha!!

Seriously though- trials make us stronger. I think they prepare us for the next chapter. Challenges help us adapt. Life if we let it can mould us into greater human beings. I don’t see myself as anything but a hard working mum trying to do what’s best for my family. But I do look at my situation and unique challenges and I’m glad they’re mine. Mine to break me, mould me, break me some more and open up my heart to learning to love a little more and try to help others.

You absolutely can overcome your trials and challenges. They might not go away but you can master them and let them be your strength. It may rip your heart open, but if you let it with some hard work on your part you can have it mended and be stronger.

Just keep swimming. And be kind. I thoroughly believe that kindness blesses us deeply.

Apes xx