Gratitude

Photo by Jesse Epstein

Hello,
After my rant on Monday and a conversation with my dear friend Lady Charmaine, I decided to just look at all the things I have to be grateful for.

Let me tell you I am one fortunate woman. I’ve had many trials in my life and God has always made sure that I am well taken care of.  Although at times, I haven’t always thought so.

I heard my friend Mike Veny talk on a news show the other day.  Mike is an awesome advocate and a professional speaker on mental health issues. He was telling the interviewer how grateful he was for his depression. Sounds "crazy," right? Well, I actually agree with Mike.

I am very grateful for my bipolar disorder.

My journey has been filled with a molestation, a rape, the narcissism of others, an eating disorder and bipolar disorder. Each one of these brought me to my knees. Each one has driven me to seek God and help. Through all of this, I discovered my faith...a faith that keeps me going on the dark days and a faith that reminds me of all the love in my life.

I am grateful for myself. I am grateful that I am able to let go and rely on God when needed. I love having this foundation. It fosters my strength and makes possible my dreams.

I have great gratitude for my parents. While they weren't perfect, they really tried their best. Most of all, I am so proud to have had parents who loved me as much as they did. I am grateful for the friends I have now and for the ones I've had to leave behind. I am grateful to God for giving me an amazing daughter whose heart is so big and so loving.

Most of all, I am grateful for my husband Jesse. He takes good care of us and is so supportive of any new endeavor I may take on. I also love his sense of humor. And the fact that he loves movies as much as I do makes it even better!!!

Even on my most trying days, I have so much to be grateful for!!

Love and Peace!
Chao
Gina