"Despite gloomy days... and o'er-darkened ways... some shape of beauty moves away the pall."
I was not raised by my biological parents. It was not easy. But I worked really hard in high school because I just knew that there was something better in store for me.
Then something amazing happened. All of the blood, sweat, and tears eventually paid off when I won a New York Times College Scholarship to Columbia University. This only made me trust and believe in the beauty of things always working themselves out for the best. The absolute best.
I felt alone as a young mom so I started this blog. I had ideas about where I wanted this community to go -- even before there was one follower, one comment on a post, or one member of the Mommy Delicious Facebook or Twitter community.
Then something amazing happened. This community continues to grow and be a source of support and inspiration in ways that are truly wonderful.
I danced around my decisions for choosing single motherhood and toyed with the idea of sharing my story here... and here.... and here. Last week, I finally decided to be transparent about my struggles with domestic violence in the hopes of helping someone else.
Then, once again, something amazing happened. My little leap of faith was totally met with an unbelievable amount of love, support, concern, and more sharing by you all. Your stories, your pain, your struggles, your triumphs. The comments, the emails, the Twitter buzz... seriously, you all amaze me.
I cannot say "thank you" enough for all of your kind words. It means more to me than you'll ever know.
Thank you. It just goes to show that pushing forward and pressing harder is truly, truly worth it.
And looking for that silver lining is nothing short of a thing of beauty. And a joy. Forever.
"A thing of beauty is a joy forever:
Its loveliness increases; it will never
Pass into nothingness; but still will keep
A bower quiet for us, and a sleep
Full of sweet dreams, and health, and quiet breathing..."
-- John Keats
Your writing is wonderful to read!
ReplyDeleteI love that you decided to share your story and I love that I got to meet you!
ReplyDeleteI agree with the first comment 100%! The community of bloggers I have found online has been amazing - full of sweet, caring, and smart young women like yourself! The ways in which we support each other transcends the keyboard by leaps and bounds and completely warms my heart.
ReplyDeleteInspirational story!
ReplyDeletePositive energy is so contagious! If only the world could take a few lessons from your "book." You are a great writer! I'm so glad I stumbled upon your blog.
ReplyDeleteI really feel that your online social community really cares so much and supports you when you need it the most. You are such an intelligent young woman and it shines through your words.
ReplyDeleteWe're the lucky ones for getting to enjoy your writing. Thank you for being brave enough to open up. You deserve every bit of success and happiness that has come your way.
ReplyDeleteThank you for being so open and honest and sharing such a personal part of your life with us. You are truly an inspiration not only to young single mothers but to all women!
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing your story! Continue to push forward and find the silver lining... it's always there! :)
ReplyDeleteI love that you've chosen to use your social media voice in such a courageous and meaningful way!
ReplyDeleteYou and other young and/or single mommy bloggers have inspired me to share my story and keep up my blog, because you never know when your story could help someone else in a similar situation. In the short time I've been reading your blog, I've pushed myself to go ahead and apply to grad school, because I see through you hat it can be done as a single mom. Of course, it won't be easy, but I have places and people that I can look to for solid advice and support, your blog being one of them. So thank YOU, for writing, and please continue the excellent work!
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