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
Ali--
I've been wondering about how you were doing after your post a while back. Thank you, as always, for sharing your life with us, the good as well as the bad. it is a great reminder that bad things happen to everyone & it is how you deal with them that defines who you are. You are a wonderful example of how to keep things in perspective, focus on the positive and look to the future. What a great gift you share with us. Thank you and warm wishes for a holiday filled with joy and peace. Merry Christmas!
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Thinking of you and sending comforting thoughts your way. Continue to look for the joy.
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Over the last few years I have enjoyed peaking into your wonderful world. I have enjoyed your stories and your photography. You are an amazing woman, with an amazing family. I made it through this difficult time several years ago, and I have no doubt that you will do the same. You will find joy in the smallest moments...the unexpected moments...and the new you moments. And I selfishly look forward to your new point of view. My best wishes to you and yours.
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Peace - for you and your family.
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Ali, I have been going through the same experience and I know how hard it is. Your wonderful friends, family and huge community of admirers are all rooting for you. I wish you peace and love.
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Ali, I wish you peace and strength as you navigate through this change. I too had wondered but hoped for a different outcome for you both. Blessings to you, Simon and Anna this season.
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Ali I have never meet you yet I'm holding back tears. Know that I'm so very sorry and you will be amazed at the strength and courage God will provide you. My husband decided to leave our family after my son had cancer and 12 years later we are all good. Your family will be in my prayers.
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Thank you for your honesty, Ali. As many have stated, I have been hoping and praying that all is well with you and your family. May you and Chris part ways with grace and dignity. You are in my heart and my thoughts.
(virtual) hugs to you!
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Wishing the best for you & your family during this next chapter of your life. Your open heart & courage will help you with the journey.
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I've been reading your blog for years, been inspired by your work more times than I can count, but I don't thinking I've ever commented before. Thank you for your honesty. It couldn't have been easy to share something so personal but I appreciate your commitment to being real in a world where so many don't. Thank you and I am very sorry for the pain you are experiencing. I've watched several friends (who are moms) go through very painful divorces and one thing I can say is they all have ended up in VERY happy places, even happier than they ever thought possible. It's a tough road but it does get better.
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I am so sorry to hear that Ali. You and your family are in my prayers. I wish you strength, clarity, peace ad so many blessings on the road ahead.
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Thank you, Ali. How easy it would have been to not document this holiday season. We all would have understood. We would have virtually patted your head and said, "We understand. Things are hard right now." But instead, you have shown us something so much deeper, so much more valuable about the importance of joy seeking during the holidays. The importance of telling the story, even when you wish you were writing a different chapter. Sometimes (maybe all the time) the only way out is through.
And what an amazing lesson you are teaching us all about the power of speaking even when your voice feels lost, about not letting your creative spirit whither, and about the power of finding a life worth celebrating when you simply choose to celebrate it. Just because, it's yours.
Thank you, Ali. May you feel every ounce of love that these comments are pouring on you. And much, much more.
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Beautiful post!
I agree just beautiful! Well said. Lots of love Ali!
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My heart too aches for all of you Ali in this difficult time. I have been through it myself and you will come through it stronger on the other side. I guess you see other peoples lives online and think everything must be perfect and it is refreshing to see you share this "real" side of your life. I will be interested to see how you scrapbook this time later (if you choose to) as I have not scrapbooked any of the difficult times that I've been through in the last few years since my divorce. Sending you all lots of good wishes and prayers for a new beginning.
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May God bless you and give you strength in these troublesome times. I pray for peace for you and your family.
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There you go. You are LIGHT! I too have noticed and you and the kids have been in my thoughts. Even though this was and is not an easy path for you/kids (and Chris).. I have seen you shine brighter in so many ways. You are blossoming into something grander. I hope that at the end of the day you take a moment and consider kindness for yourself. Keep doing what you are doing -- you are such an incredible inspiration to many. Through trials comes triumphs. So far you seem to be doing just fine.
Merry Christmas!
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Thank you for sharing! You seem to bring a positive spirit to whatever you face - I admire that. I lost a baby at the beginning of the second trimester last year; it was a very tough time. Quite honestly, one of the things that "rescued" me was watching people who bring that spirit of joy to their lives - your blog was one of the things I most enjoyed reading during that time (and still enjoy)! Hoping you have a special, really joyful holiday season.
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Ali, you are a gifted teacher and you naturally inspire others. Your grace and openness will teach others to do the same. I will be sending thoughts of peace and love to you and your family.
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Ali,
I have followed you for a long time. I just want you to know that I respect you and the way you live life with so much integrity. Hoping for all the best for you and your family.
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I found your blog the year I was getting a divorce - 2008. And I picked for my OLW - Peace. My wish for you is that you will find Peace. Reading your blog has helped me and so many other people. I love how positive and creative you are!
I have two kids with autism. Being divorced was hard, but yet I am HAPPY! (another OLW)
Know that we are all thinking of you and sending you good wishes for your next chapter in life.
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I'm sure the path is rough and I'm sure it hurts but I know you have the courage, strength and beauty (inside and out) to make it through. I wish you a joyous Christmas.
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