If you’re following along, you know that I’ve been sharing the dedication and acknowledgement sections of my book with you. Last week, I reviewed the third part of my acknowledgments. Today, I’m diving into the final part of my acknowledgment section – my innermost circle. Here is the final part of my acknowledgment section:
It is my relationships with the innermost circles in my life that I owe the most heartfelt gratitude. My mom, who taught me the delightful feeling of unconditional love. You and me against the world, mom. My dad, who taught me perseverance, competitiveness, and the blessing of being loved despite messing up. Thanks for choosing me. Sophia and Jack, my beautiful kids, who teach me, forgive me, and who hold my entire heart. I am blessed to be your mother. Finally, my husband, Ryan – there is no other soul in the world who has healed my heart more than you.
I still cannot read this section of my acknowledgments without crying. How do you thank the people who make up your whole world? The ones who dedicated their lives to raising you, who you are raising, and whose love you have committed?
My mom taught me unconditional love. Raising five kids was not always easy for her. She was a single mom for a great deal of her life, we did not have a lot of money, but she always put our needs first. No matter what, we never lacked love and acceptance. She spoke to us with love and without judgment. She taught me that I’m never better than anyone else. And she encouraged me to follow my dreams. From a one-bedroom apartment in Iowa, me and her against the world, to big dreams in Oregon, she’s always stood by me.
My dad, whom my son is named after, chose me. My biological dad struggled with alcoholism, but Jack raised me and always showed up for me. He taught me hard work, competitiveness, and patience. When my daughter was just under 2 years old, we were at a park with her. As I pushed her on the swing, I told my dad I couldn’t imagine loving someone as much as I experienced loving her. He said, “I know, that’s how old you were when I fell in love with you.” A part of my heart healed that day.
My children are my world. Becoming a mom has been the greatest gift in my life. I learn something from my children and about myself every day. I was born to be a mom to them. I love raising humans that I now get to enjoy. At seventeen and nineteen, I’m seeing them become young adults who I admire. It’s the most rewarding and humbling experience I’ve ever had and I truly treasure every moment. Parenting young children goes by so fast and I’m so thankful that I now get to spend time with these amazing people at every stage of their life.
Ryan. They say that you choose partners that either heal your trauma or intensify it. Ryan has truly healed my heart in so many ways. I’ve never felt safer, smarter, more beautiful, or loved by another soul. With him, I am seen and cared for in ways I could only dream of – he is my once-in-a-lifetime love. My best friend. The person I love experiencing life with every day.
That’s it, friends. That wraps up my dedication and acknowledgments. Thank you for letting me share this with you. I hope you’ve learned a bit more about me, my passions, and the people who’ve shaped me and this book.
Tell me, if I were to dare ever write another book -what would you hope to read?
