Darlin's

These two have known since they were born that the best thing to hold onto in life is each other. 

Girl Night craft provided by Olivia 

Help When We Need It Most

{Sitting with me here are the most beautiful, soulful friends there ever could be.}

Six months divorced today, I need a little something. That and the #PrayForBoston yesterday, my heart is aching, especially for the little boy that died, his family must be hurting right now. I hope they have friends and family who are there to support them during this difficult time. I am so lucky to have that. My friends and family are amazing. Even today at Carol's birthday lunch I can't believe all they did for me. Hugs, smiles, holding sweet Emma and yummy food all combined to give me the boost I needed. 

I saved their cards and notes from the past six months and thought I'd share a few lines that helped me during my divorce...the ones that made a difference. I am blown away by the love that came my way as my divorce went through. Here are some words to offer someone who is going through a divorce (or any trial really.)

From my beloved (used to be) home teacher:

"I heard through the grapevine that you and Ben have split up. Naturally, it was a great shock to hear, not to mention a tremendous surprise. I don't know why or what happened, but I know that in any divorce there are hurt feelings and a lot of sadness."

"It seems like our association with the ward has been severely curtailed since our new mission call, but we still live just down the street, and I'm just a phone call away. I can't discontinue our friendship just because I'm no longer your home teacher."

From a friend, single and happy:

"I love you. I support you. I am so very sorry for the pain and transition you are going through. I have loved serving with you and getting to know you over the years. You are such a gentle, sweet, loving person. My thoughts, prayers, and desires for your happiness are with you..."

From many friends:

"To my beautiful and brave friend. Wishing you everything you need to make it through this rough time - and pray that you'll know you have a group of cheerleaders behind you who would do anything for you - just let us know what we can do. You're my hero and I love you."

"You are a woman of remarkable strength, wisdom and courage. I am so sorry that you are going through this difficult time. I know the Lord will bless you and help you through this, and your friends (me!) love you and would do anything for you. Sending thoughts, prayers and love your way and I hope you will let me be a support to you as you need it. Love you!"

"I had no idea about all the difficulties and pain you were going through. You are amazing. You always look outward, you truly are a gem."

"...most of all thank you for being a part of my life. I'm so sorry you have had this trial in your life...I can't express words that will convey to you how sorry I am. I know though that you will be strong and all will be well one day. You are such a saint I just know life is hard, but watching you LIVE life inspires me. I adore you. I admire you. And most of all I love you."

"I love you and admire you so much. I am heartbroken that you have had to go through these challenges in your life right now. You are so dedicated to your family and living right. It just doesn't seem fair. But I know you can face this with Faith and patience and love, and Heavenly Father will bless you in your efforts and your Savior will be there to comfort your dear, sweet, soul when you need that. Life is so much harder than I expected. But I do know that "all these things shall give thee experience" - and that's what we need to be more like God. You are the sweetest, kindest person, so I don't know that you have much need of experience, but I know through this you will be an even more beautiful and remarkable person than you already are. Much love..."

"How can I put into words all the feelings that fill my soul right now? ...I didn't know anything about you and Ben even having problems... it was completely a surprise.  Honestly, I went upstairs and bawled...I am in awe of you. Your courage, your honesty, your beautiful soul.  I am also in awe of the Lord.  He's been helping me see lately the . . . how shall I put it? The gears behind the clock face? How my heart aches with joy, though, at the same time, to see the Lord knew and He has been working in your life to help you, love you, lead you - to see it come to the point where you can let Him in like never before.  Maybe because I've been more on the periphery and haven't talked with you for so long, I can see a broader view than I would otherwise. I am just so overwhelmed by the glaring evidence of his love and attention for you that stands out because of that long-view.  His wisdom, his patience in waiting for the right moments to teach you what you needed at every step.  To see how you've recognized it and courageously written and shared it with others.  It's just so beautiful . . . I can't express.  I guess it's so huge because it's such a witness to me right now of how much He must love me, too. How much he wants to help me, mentor me - guide me to learn and grow in faith.  That word means so much more to me these days - faith.  It's a relationship word more than a belief word to me now.  It also means power.  The stronger the relationship, the more we allow (Mosiah 3:17,19) his power in, to transform us as we all need - it's the purpose of this life, isn't it? Wow."

"Thank you for being such a great teacher, role-model, friend and mother. You rock!"

From a nice/normal guy at Walmart on a day I did not wear my wedding ring (he was in line behind me and lives in the neighborhood):

"Where do I know you from? I was wondering if I could take you out for something to eat?" Me: "Oh, no thank you (cringing), I am just going through a divorce." Handsome Walmart stranger: "I'm sorry for you. I'd love to take you to lunch whenever you're ready."

Lol! Well, there you have it...some things that helped my soul during a hard time. Live and learn and pass it on.  I hope you have similar words coming your way from the people you love.

{I will forever be grateful to them.}