Thank You

 

I have heard it said that sometimes people come into our lives and stay, and some are there for only a season and then leave.

 

I believe there is value in both.

I have learned that terminating toxic relationships is your right, actually-it’s your responsibility. Sometimes those relationships are people you thought would be there for life and were instead, only there for a season. Here’s the big thing though, sometimes those toxic relationships are family.

 

I will say it again for those in the back-SOMETIMES FAMILY IS TOXIC AND YOU HAVE EVERY RIGHT AND THE RESPONSIBILITY TO TERMINATE THOSE CONNECTIONS.

 

So I have a few people to thank for where I am today:

 

To my parents: thank you for always encouraging me, believing in me and raising me to be a good human (even though I still fall short). Thank you for always loving me, no matter what.

 

To the toxic bitch that I thought was my friend: thank you for teaching me that people can say pretty things to your face and spread hate behind your back. You haven’t made me paranoid, but you did teach me to be very careful as to who I let into my circle. Also-20+ years after you wished my husband a speedy divorce on our wedding day-we are still happily married and have lived through shit you can’t even imagine.

 

To the employer that took a chance on me: thank you for jump-starting a career that has led me to a great job that provides well for my family.

 

To the teachers that believed in me: thank you for taking the time to see past the façade and recognize the insecure, self-conscious girl I really was and for working with her in that space.

 

To the malignant narcissist that almost ruined my family: thank you for masquerading as a godly man and friend. You showed your true colors when the chips were down and now I know the red flags that indicate I may be dealing with someone like you.

 

To all of my bosses over the years: many of you taught me valuable things that have help propel my career forward. Some of you taught me what not to do. Some of you taught me how to treat people well and make them want to work hard for you. Some of you taught me when to recognize that it is time to get out.

 

To the crazy woman that fucked with my girls: we are settled up, but just know-you taught me where to draw the line.

 

To the friends and family that disappeared after Logan died: thank you for teaching me that tragedies reveal who is really with you and who is not.

 

To the friends that lasted: thank you for always sticking by me.

 

To the friends that have embraced us since Logan died: thank you for being part of our small, but very close circle.