I’d like to share with you an excerpt taken from “This I Believe, The Personal Philosophies of Remarkable Men and Women”. In this book, contributing author Mary Cook speaks about life after the death of her fiance who fell from their roof on a snowy November day. She talks about how before he died, she took such pride in being independent and never asking for help. For Mary, that all changed after his fateful fall. Friends, family and neighbors all came to her aid whether she wanted it or not. She was forced to really see and accept the genuine people who are out there to help because they want to, not because she asked or even because they thought she was incapable. Mary was uncomfortable with this notion at first, but quickly learned that there was a much deeper meaning and purpose to these kind acts. She writes:

“I am not the person I once was, but in many ways I have changed for the better. The fabric of my life is now woven with gratitude and humility. I have been surprised to learn that there is incredible freedom that comes from facing one’s worst fear and walking away whole. I believe there is strength in surrender.”

Have you have moments when you look back and see the blessings that have come your way? Do you live your life open to gratitude in a way you never thought possible? I would love to hear about the “blessings in disguise” that have come your way since your loss. Please feel free to share your stories so that we can connect and help each other.