I am grateful I live somewhere safe, somewhere that I find beautiful, somewhere surrounded by an incredible diversity in human experience. I am grateful my child is healthy and joyful.

I am grateful everyone in my family has always accepted me with open arms.

I am grateful for having met people who have become a part of my heart and become family.

“You’ve got a friend” was a favorite song growing up – I would cry as I sang the lyrics (a melodramatic teenager) at their deep truth and celebration of friendship. I want to be that kind of friend. In this world where so many of us no longer live near family, friends become our family. Friends know us on a deep level, they stand by us through the changes we go through, they love us.

I have felt so much support these past few years from friends new and old. When I have asked for help, I have received it in abundance. Not so much in things (although I have received furniture, meals out, free babysitting, and overpayment for a copy of my book…) but mostly in time, in listening, in a hug, in a  texted inspirational quote, in a “I believe in you” or “I’m proud of you” speech. I have felt bolstered up when I was slipping down.

I would like to acknowledge with gratitude and appreciation a few individuals who in my time of need, stepped up generously and literally helped my book become a reality. You helped make my dream come true:

Ismana Carney

Jason and Thaisa Katz

Amy Beacham

Nazgol Khamneipur

Alex Ghashghai

Hope Flamm

Mosi Jack

Jena Davis Simon

Suzanne Cohen

Becky Hays Rovey

There are so many more – you know who you are – I have great love and appreciation for the much needed support. I only wish I can be as generous with all of you. I will strive to give more, do more, be present more, and love more.

Thank you for giving me the experience of feeling the sweetness of gratitude.