I was on pinterest today…. What did I do before I found this wonderland of just about anything.  Searching for art ideas and I came across this quote that I keep reading over and over, I can’t get it out of my head.  I guess the reason I like it, is because it is a little raw.. not so sing songy, and happy…but real.  “to hurt you”… “to leave you”… ouch…that’s pretty real life.   So why am I so moved by these words?  I guess, because I think everyone understands what it means to hurt, to struggle, to have someone leave, by choice or by death…  and I am drawn to others who brave enough to share their story.  The other reason that I continue to ponder this saying is that… it’s what I do with those experiences that will help me grow.  If I could genuinely look at my life with the perspective of the above quote it would help me better understand some of the circumstances I’ve experienced.  It would help me to forgive and give me a sense of comfort.  As I look back at my life…ALL of the journey has been for a purpose… I might have disagreed at the moment..I might have cried, complained, been angry or wished I was not dealing with the pain,  but it was part of the journey and everything has brought me toTHIS place…. and this place is pretty darn good!  Let me not forget the other part of the phrase.. that those who want to help me and love me will come…. and they did! and they will!  …and I appreciate it so much more because of the past trials!… Big smile = Shawn