family
Family unites us; but it's also a challenge. All about fighting to stay together, and loving every moment of it.
Faith, Fear and Gratitude . Runner-Up in Letters of Gratitude Challenge. Content Warning.
Dear Mom, Gratitude... I spent a very long time trying to grasp the understanding of gratitude. You hear it at every recovery meeting, and it's part of the 12 steps. The very core of getting sober requires immense gratitude, and it's something you have to find every day, one day at a time. I didn't know what it meant because I spent most days ungrateful for being alive, but as I completed each step of sobriety, I learned what true gratitude was. The person I am most grateful to is my mom, who allowed me to suffer the responsibilities of my actions but spared me from falling into despair. I got sober, and she stood by my side through it all. Through my stupid teenage angst resurfacing, through my hatred of her, and through my rediscovering of myself. She has one rule for me when I live under her roof now: no drinking and no drugs. I used to hate that, but now I'm grateful for it because it gives me a rigid path at home. Which in turn enables me to find flexibility in my life while sober. I needed that heavy-handed discipline like I had in the army. I would say above all, I am most grateful to you, mom, for the way you allow me the grace to fall and make mistakes. You knew I was always terrified to fail, and still you cheer me on even when I'm afraid. Afraid that I won't make it in this life, afraid that I'm not strong enough to persevere. Afraid that I might lose you someday every time I hear you tell me the cancer came back. Afraid every time I hold your hand before you go into surgery and you ask me to say a prayer for you. I am reminded how much gratitude I truly have in those moments because I wasn't that man before I got sober. I couldn't bear to see you in pain, and now I show up every time I'm needed despite that fear. Because I'm so grateful for the life you gave me—the life you helped me recreate. I am grateful for the time I am able to spend even when I'm gone traveling, and you love hearing about my stories. I used to hold a lifetime worth of anger towards you, and you took my hatred every time I came home drunk. Still, you had the strength to love me and help me get sober. I know we cried so many tears together when I finally started being open and vulnerable with you. I'm grateful that I could tell you about my struggles, about the times I tried to kill myself but survived. You never judged me for it, and you just wanted me to find happiness in this life. I can't express the gratitude I have for you, mom, and the ways you sacrificed living your own life so I could live mine. I never appreciated it as a kid, but I do know. I want to see you live your life now and travel more, as you allowed me the freedom to. I want to thank you for all that you do. It wasn't an easy road for either of us, and there were many times I couldn't face you. You are my best friend, my mom, and the only person I'm afraid of losing. I hope everyone can experience that type of love and gratitude at least once in their lifetime. Gratitude is the essence of life; it gives us a reason to move forward every day. It helps us heal even when our hearts are heavy and full of bitterness. With gratitude in your heart, you can conquer the day. You taught me to be grateful for every single day I'm alive and breathing, so thank you, mom. I love you more than anything else in this world.
By Matthew Mccahey2 years ago in Humans
What Triggers Emotional Attraction in a Woman
To make relationships that matter, you need to understand how emotions work. Beyond looks, it builds a strong connection that encourages faith, love, and respect for each other. We'll look at the different things that spark emotional attraction in women, including psychological, behavioral, and environmental factors.
By Relationship Guide2 years ago in Humans
Why Do Women Need Control Over Their Bodies? Understanding Abortion Laws in India
The issue of abortion has consistently sparked considerable debate and conversation. Some individuals advocate for the rights of mothers or pregnant women to choose to continue with the pregnancy or terminate it; conversely, others believe that a foetus is more than just a mere collection of cells, viewing it as a living entity with its own life, deserving of individual rights and freedoms separate from those of the pregnant woman. A notable instance when personal freedoms were at risk was when women's access to safe abortion services was jeopardized. For many years, until 1971, India deemed abortion criminal and referred to it as “intentionally causing miscarriage.” Voluntary abortion, except in cases where the pregnant woman's life was endangered, could result in a punishment of up to three years in prison, a monetary fine, or both.
By Hridya Sharma2 years ago in Humans
Maintaining Emotional Connection Across Distances: A Guide
Maintaining an emotional connection in long-distance relationships can be challenging but incredibly rewarding. Physical distance can often lead to feelings of isolation and disconnection, but with the right strategies, couples can nurture their bond and keep love alive. This guide offers practical tips and insights to help you maintain emotional closeness, ensuring that your relationship continues to flourish despite the miles.
By Abdul Jamil Nasir2 years ago in Humans
How to Manage Loneliness in Long-Distance Relationships
Long-distance relationships (LDRs) can be both fulfilling and challenging. While the emotional connection can thrive, the physical distance often leads to feelings of loneliness and isolation. Understanding how to manage these feelings is crucial for the health of the relationship. In this article, we’ll explore effective strategies to cope with loneliness in long-distance relationships, ensuring that love and connection endure despite the miles.
By Abdul Jamil Nasir2 years ago in Humans
Reunion Planning: Tips for a Successful Get-Together
Reunions can be a wonderful way to reconnect with friends, family, or colleagues after a significant time apart. Whether you're planning a family reunion, a school gathering, or a reunion with old friends, the key to a successful get-together lies in thoughtful planning and consideration of everyone’s needs. This article provides essential tips for organizing a memorable reunion that strengthens bonds and creates lasting memories.
By Abdul Jamil Nasir2 years ago in Humans
To My Sunshine. Top Story - November 2024. Content Warning.
I was not prepared when I found out that I was going to be your mother. I was 18 years old, barely out of high school and no were near an adult in my mind. As you grew inside of my womb, I was overwhelmed with fear and anxiety, but also with love for you. Your birth was not easy on me, because you were too afraid to come out into the world. 48 hours of labor and a c-section later, you were here and my life was never the same again.
By Luna Verity2 years ago in Humans
Effective Communication Strategies for Long-Distance Couples
Long-distance relationships (LDRs) can be both rewarding and challenging. Effective communication is the cornerstone of any relationship, but it becomes even more crucial when physical distance separates partners. In this article, we will explore effective communication strategies for long-distance couples, helping you strengthen your bond and maintain intimacy despite the miles.
By Abdul Jamil Nasir2 years ago in Humans
A Fine Line Between Intoxicating And Toxic Friendships And Relationships
Introduction Friendships and relationships are essential parts of our lives. They shape who we are, bring us joy, and sometimes, unfortunately, pain. There's something thrilling about having a connection so deep it feels intoxicating, like a breath of fresh air or a shot of adrenaline. But what happens when that intoxicating connection crosses the line and becomes toxic?
By Muhammad Nadeem2 years ago in Humans
A Letter of Thanks: The Art of the Artist as looking at Himself and the Community. Content Warning. AI-Generated.
The Power of Gratitude: A Heartful Reflection on People Shaping Our Life at Such Quiet Moments When the noise subsides and one finds a semblance of solitude to reflect, it brings home to oneself those people who have made such distinctions in their journey. Little gestures of love or advice make a tremendous mark on the heart. And then there's this season of thanksgiving, which has made it the perfect timing to celebrate their impact by doing something that is timeless-done in a very rare gesture: penning a letter of gratitude.
By Ramakrishna Muppa2 years ago in Humans
