Eggshells Unbroken

the day I came home and turned on the light

to those who did not treat me well and, for some reason, wondered why I left:

it is because I remembered that I loved myself more than I loved the idea of an “us”

it is because I remembered I was worth more than you could ever give

it is because I realized I did not need you

because I had me

the day I came home and turned the light on

Heart Talk by Cleo Wade

August 2005, Mola Vista.  Our first night in the city.  The apartment was tiny.  But just enough for the 6 of us.   A temporary stay while our house was being renovated a couple miles away.   Just the 5 younger kids and myself living here M-F going to their respective schools.  The house in the country was still on the market and the 2 oldest kids continued living there with their dad (then husband).

For the first time since 1987, I slept soundly.  Quietness.  All were  soundly asleep.  Having the bed all to myself,  I knew something needed to change…just not sure who, what, where and  how at that time ….therapist..the word settled in my thoughts as I drifted to sleep…

…get a therapist.  Me only.  Not him and me.  Just me.

 

 

Tribute to Dad 11/18/23-11/10/98

November 18, 2016

Thinking about you today Dad in the memory of your birthday.  Always keeping you in our prayers and thoughts.

You walked the talk Dad: hope where there was despair; faith during times of uncertainty and rejection; compassion and love when confronted with ill-will and indifference.

I see you in the goodness of my kids.

Thank you for giving us your amazing sense of humor and ready smile.  Writing that sentence brings a smile to my lips!!  I am grateful to you for teaching and showing me about the presence of God in every day life and imparting valuable work ethics.  I am proud to be a daughter of a WWII Veteran and POW.  You defended our nation against Imperialism and hatred, and fought for justice, peace and the marginalized.

You practiced tough love when I a kid.  I totally hated that.  But things changed when I became a “grown-up”! Hanging out with you became the “new cool”!!

I believe the best gift you gave was how you loved Mom.  Thank you for loving Mom.  You should be awarded posthumously for being the most amazing husband any woman deserves.  Life knew what they were doing when they gave you as my dad, and that blessing trickled down to my children.  My heart is overflowing with gratitude!

You were One Classy Guy!  I’ll see you on the same side in Heaven someday.

Love You!