Raindance

“Life’s not about waiting for the storm to pass…It’s about Learning To Dance In The Rain.” - Vivian Greene

While I strive to have a sunshiny attitude most of the time, no one's life is without turmoil and grief.  I recently lost my mother and best friend, my kids lost their Grammie that loved them unconditionally, my father lost his soul mate... Several years ago, we lost my brother-in-law to a drug overdose.... My kids were born 3 months premature... my family knows heartache, but we do our best to dance in the rain. 

Inspiration and Words to live by:

"And when it rains on your parade, look up rather than down. Without the rain, there would be no rainbow." - G. K. Chesterton

“You've gotta dance like there's nobody watching,
Love like you'll never be hurt,
Sing like there's nobody listening,
And live like it's heaven on earth.”
- William W. Purkey

Desiderata by Max Ehrmann
(these words are framed in my father's home... thanks Dad for sharing this with me)
"Go placidly amidst the noise and haste, and remember what peace there may be in silence. As far as possible without surrender be on good terms with all persons. Speak your truth quietly and clearly; and listen to others, even the dull and the ignorant; they too have their story.
Avoid loud and aggressive persons, they are vexations to the spirit. If you compare yourself with others, you may become vain or bitter; for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself.
Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans. Keep interested in your own career, however humble; it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time.
Exercise caution in your business affairs; for the world is full of trickery. But let this not blind you to what virtue there is; many persons strive for high ideals; and everywhere life is full of heroism.
Be yourself. Especially, do not feign affection. Neither be cynical about love; for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment it is as perennial as the grass.
Take kindly the counsel of the years, gracefully surrendering the things of youth. Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune. But do not distress yourself with dark imaginings. Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness.
Beyond a wholesome discipline, be gentle with yourself. You are a child of the universe, no less than the trees and the stars; you have a right to be here.
And whether or not it is clear to you, no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should. Therefore be at peace with God, whatever you conceive Him to be, and whatever your labors and aspirations, in the noisy confusion of life keep peace with your soul. With all its sham, drudgery, and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world. Be cheerful. Strive to be happy."

The Golden Rule: "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you."
My mother's life was the ultimate example of living the golden rule.  She sought to teach her children and grandchildren to do the same and I hope to pass on her legacy of love and respect.  My life was blessed by her presence and I miss her dearly.  Thank you, Mom, for the unconditional love you gave to your family and for teaching us to love others and love life!