... but that’s the way I am. I would happily give you all my cheer-allotment for today, and tomorrow. (And a hug too, and I don’t even know you. But that’s that presumptuous and forward part.) Just for this one goal. You know what? You can do this. Just like I can come to terms with my pain; albeit very different pain, but I can too. And it’s small little baby steps, yes, and we both can do it. If I can lose this emotional weight since I have had since I was two years old (I mean, I’ve lost the weight of a third grader!!), you can too. You really, really can. (Ok, /cheese off )

So here, here’s another cheer. And another!

for being so brave. Surviving a loss of a parent is difficult enough. The extra pain of suicide must weigh heavy. My mom attempted for years, many times close to succeeding and it pulls the rug out from under you, that’s for sure. I’m reading a book about ‘adult children’ of alcoholics, mentally ill, etc. and it talks about the abandonment issue. My best friend and I went through that a bit – she is adopted and really dug into the subject (her daughter was sexually abused by her then-husband) so many of us have been down similar paths – you’re not alone.

Keep fighting the good fight, and take comfort knowing that with each step you take, not only are you a step closer to your own personal goals, but you are also inspiring others (such as myself) that are working through our own struggles in life.

Thanks for your strength, and keep it up!