We all know one person

In the face of overwhelming challenges, I learned to find strength in the smallest acts of kindness. While navigating the difficult decision to leave a relationship I had invested over two decades into, with children I loved and cared for, I discovered something profound. Despite the fear, uncertainty, and pain, I found moments of grace—what I call "butterflies." These butterflies were fleeting, gentle gestures of kindness that lifted me, reminding me I wasn’t alone. During this time, I had the support of my employer, Keith, who allowed me the space to attend therapy sessions, ensuring I didn't lose income while working through my struggles. His belief in me, even when I couldn’t see it myself, gave me the strength to keep going. In moments of deep vulnerability, Keith's support showed me the power of believing in someone else's journey, even when they couldn’t yet believe in themselves. There was also Sandy, a friend who gave us more than just a safe place to sta...

Life has a way of challenging us in ways we never expect, but those very challenges can become the catalysts for our greatest transformations. For so long, I was living in the shadow of my past — a past where I felt small, powerless, and without a clear path forward. But then, I was given the greatest gift of all: my first son. He became my reason to rise, to be better, to create a future I never had but so desperately wanted for him. In his eyes, I saw not just the love of a child but the reflection of the woman I could become.  Then, years later another son who I saw that taught me resilience. In the years that followed, life tested me in ways that felt unbearable. From moments of violence to living in fear, I endured and tried to make a home for my children. I believed that in the darkest times, I was simply surviving. I didn't know how to escape the cycle, and I didn't believe I was strong enough to stand up for myself. But deep down, I always knew that I had a choice — tha...