The Evolution Of My Story
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It's always been my goal to authentically share my story both in my scrapbooks and in this online space.
To me that means addressing the good, the bad, the beautiful, the successes, the challenges - the very real pieces of my life.
As many of you have noticed, and some have commented and emailed, Chris has been mostly absent for some time from the stories and photos. He has decided that he wants something different with his life and we are in the process of getting a divorce.
Chris continues to maintain an active role in the kid's lives.
There is nothing easy about this.
It's very hard and very stressful and very sad.
And yet, the story continues for all of us. For him and me. For the kids and me. For him and the kids. And there are many, many things I have to be thankful for in my life.
I've always maintained, and taught in my workshops, that not all stories need to be told.
But here, in this space, it's important to me that there's a general awareness of this change. This will allow me to more authentically share my story going forward.
A few months ago I asked for your prayers, your positive energy, your wishes of strength and peace, and your compassion. I'd humbly ask for your continued kindness as this specific chapter closes and new ones begin.
As you consider leaving a comment I would also humbly ask that you focus on something positive, compassionate and/or uplifting. Our heartfelt intent is to maintain a positive relationship as we move forward in our lives.
Wishing all of you, especially any of you who may be experiencing something similar within your own family, peace during the Christmas season.
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934 comments
Dear Ali, all my good thoughts for you and your family. Thank you for being so generous. You inspire us all. God bless you.
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Ali, I just wanted to add my good wishes and support as you walk this path...a path I also walked six years ago. your relationship with Chris is not over, it will just grow into a different stage as you continue to parent your children together. Although I am remarried, we share holidays together so that our young adult children do not have to choose who to spend the day with or divide their time between us. It requires patience and compassion, but it's only one day, or one birthday dinner, etc. and we decided that the kids were more important than any differences we had between us. I think the OLW you seem to have chosen for 2012 is perfect for the situation. Blessings to you and your family this Christmas.
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I know two other friends going through this right now too... such a tough time of the year to start new traditions, beginnings and journeys. You're always welcome to move back to T-town... the smell has gone away some (or I've just adjusted to it after several years) :-) Prayers for you Ali.
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Ali--I don't know you personally but I went through the OLW with you this year so I feel that I at least know you "scrapbooking-ly." I just wanted to send my best wishes to you as you go through this very difficult time in your life.
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I respect and honor your openness...sharing this part of your story cannot be easy. I hope that you are blessed with an abundance of peace this holiday season.You and your family will remain in my thoughts and prayers.
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My wish for you is peace, strength, and hope
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Love the quote Ali. And leave it to you to choose to inspire others in your time of trial. May your family find a solution that works the best for all of you. Our love and support to you and those adorable kids of yours.
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Ali, just wanted to day I know what you are going through, my husband of 10 years and I decided to divorce in August, we have 2 children aged 3 and 9, it is hard, so hard, but we are getting there slowly but surely. Just wanted to say Hi and that you are not alone! Susan (Scotland) x
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I'm so sorry to hear your news. I know from experience that this is a sad, trying time, and I wish you all the very best. Thanks for sharing your story- I'm interested to see what your word will be in this new chapter! Hoping for a peaceful holiday for you all.
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Hugs and prayers to you.
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Peace to you.
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Almost a year ago I posted a comment telling you and your readers how thankful I am for sharing the idea of the December Daily, since my spouse suffered a serious heart attack on Jan. 2nd, 2011. The DD was our last journal as a "whole" family. Now, a year afterwards, my spouse is still alive but he and me and the kids have to deal with the severe consequences of the heart attack, like him sitting in a wheelchair and being NOT the one he was before Jan. 2nd. I know, that the upcoming year I might face decisions which I thought I never would have to make, but I also know: I CAN DO THIS! For the sake of my kids and of course, for me and NOT feeling guilty. I have been thinking a lot about women and their strength, in the past, now, in the future, realizing that I have become one of those women.
I am sending you all my strength, thoughts and prayers for all the challenges you will have to face and knowing, you can do this. Susi
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kia kaha ali, simon and anna
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Like many others above Ali, I too sensed something was changing for you. BIG HUGS to you, Simon and Anna and stay as sweet as you are. I'm thinking of you all. xxx
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My divorce was by far, one of the most difficult things I have gone through. But choosing to go through it with respect, grace, and positive energy was something that I focused on. Wishing you peace and grace.
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Dear Heavenly Father, please watch over this family as they are going through a rough patch in their lives. Help Ali and Chris to continue to be nurturing parents for their children and to treat each other with respect. Watch over Simon and Anna as they also go through the confusion that divorce can bring to their lives. Help them both to adjust to their new normal and to know that they are still deeply loved by both of their parents. In Jesus' Name I pray. Amen.
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So sorry to hear this Ali. I wish you and your family all the best at this difficult time; I'm sure you have the strength to get through this but it must be tough for you all. Know that you have many friends out here on the world wide web :)
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Hi Ali,
I am sorry to hear about that. As i folllowed your blog for a long time since i had interested to scrapbook but i haven't started yet. I've just kept doing your advice and your spirit to take a picture a day for my journal. I don't know what the reason is, but anyway I know you are very strong woman & fully understand what you are doing now. Wishing you all the best & Happy holiday!!!
Ricka
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You are such an inspiration to so many of us, and this difficult post is written with such grace. I wish nothing but peace for you during this season of life. My thoughts are with you and your family.
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Ali, when times get tough or tougher and you need some strength,
come back to read the outpouring of love in these posts. You have touched so many lives. Let all of those lives come back to touch yours! With tears in my eyes, Love Pat
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