My babies see the tenderness I feel. My daughter cried out for me every two hours last night and though it was brutal for lack of sleep, I am glad I went to her each time. One dog watches me wearily, seeing my pain. The other wants to nuzzle my face and stay right by my side.
Today I am grateful for tenderness. I am grateful to have this tender heart even when it feels shattered. I am grateful for the strong arms of my husband as he hugs me as many times as he can before work. I'm grateful for my beautiful daughter that I get to hold. I'm grateful for her being a ham to try to cheer me up as she does not understand my tears. I'm grateful for my dogs, both the cuddles and attention of one and the watchfulness of the other. I'm grateful to have been fortunate enough to have met the young woman my heart now mourns. I'm grateful for all we shared and for all we taught each other in too short a time. I'm grateful to understand that her decision was not cowardly but sadly the inability to see all the love this world had for her. I'm grateful for all those who loved her. And I'm grateful for all those who spend their lives trying to prevent these heartbreaks and free people from that darkness.
Who needs you today? Who can reach out to? If you are feeling alone or depressed, please reach out to someone. You are so loved.
May today be gentle to our hearts. May we find love, comfort, and tenderness all around us. May we find ways to make this world a positive, supportive place. Have a beautiful day!