I’m not afraid for once of what is to come. I’ve learned a lot in the past couple of years, especially about survival and friendship. I’m not alone in this boat, although I may be alone battling my own fight. I’m in a good place now, and grateful for every single obstacle that got me here. Most of my sentences about what I’ve learned start with if…

If my husband hadn’t called it quits, I would have never moved on to finding better jobs.

If I hadn’t left my home, I wouldn’t have experienced such expressions of love and friendship.

If I hadn’t  had to live for a while in other people’s homes, I wouldn’t have experienced such humility and gratitude.

If I hadn’t suddenly had to start a new life on my own, I wouldn’t have made such new wonderful friendships.

If I hadn’t broken away from my routines, I wouldn’t have enjoyed the benefits of healthy and refreshing improvisation.

If I hadn’t been unemployed for a while, I wouldn’t have had time to reflect and truly understand myself, my wants and needs.

If I hadn’t had so much time off, I wouldn’t be able, especially now, to travel and be open to new experiences.

If I hadn’t experienced so much sadness and pain, I wouldn’t be so sensitive now and empathetic.

If I hadn’t experienced divorce, I wouldn’t have known, how anger is not something I can live with. So, I don’t.

If I hadn’t been divorced, I wouldn’t have been able to help other people in many ways.

If I hadn’t been on my own for once, I wouldn’t have known, how comfortable I feel by myself.

And the list goes on… I can count every If…. as a blessing.