Wednesday, November 23, 2011

"No one is as capable of gratitude as one who has emerged from the kingdom of night." -Elie Wiesel

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It is hardly a secret, that since Zoey came blazing into our world, almost 5 years ago, that our lives, all of our lives, and the directions they take, seem dependent on the ebb and flow of hers. If she is good, we are good.  If she struggles, we struggle right beside her. And so it goes. Yes, we all have our independent pursuits and dreams, well, maybe everyone except myself, because now my life has forever become conjoined with hers. That does not diminish the importance or the love I have for my other children, or the love they have for each other, but we all know the truth and the truth lies within the itty-bitty 22 pound, almost 5 year old, youngest member of our family. In the end, it all comes full circle to Zoey.


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 Her life and her fight, from breath one, has taken us from the depths of sadness and despair, riddled with fear and uncertainty, into a place overflowing with gratitude. And while the days ahead will undoubtedly be filled with journeys into the unknown, as it stands today, watching Zoey travel through the darkness of the unfair, has enabled the rest of us to stand in the warmth of the light. And for that, our hearts overflow with gratitude.

A very Happy Thanksgiving to all of you who have found your way here today. On this day, may you be surrounded by joy and laughter and those you love.May we each pause for a moment, amongst the chaos of the day, and look with gratitude on the blessings and the miracles that encircle us, ever mindful of those who continue to walk in the darkness of uncertainty.Peace and love to you all.

18 comments:

Gracesmommy said...

Beautiful post... beautiful picture... absolutely beautiful girl!

Rochelle said...

Beautiful post my friend, LOVE the family pics! Happy Thanksgiving. Yes, SO much to be grateful for, that smile of Zoey's alone is top of the list!

Anonymous said...

Heather,
Both of our lives have changed so much since those days on Via Calderon. Hard to imagine what another twenty years will bring. But one thing is true - this blog has inspired me to learn more about special needs and to just get a tiny glimpse in to the many lives that are impacted on a day-to-day basis. Blessings to you and to all of the bloggers who take the time to educate and share your lives. At times you have inspired me to quit feeling sorry for myself, at times you have inspired me to speak up in a meeting about playground needs or about handicapped ramps. It has definitely inspired me to think before I speak and to not judge a book by its cover. You truly never know what the person standing next to you is dealing with. So thank you, from the bottom of my heart. You and your family are always in my prayers, as are the other children I read about. You are an amazing woman! Love you all - Christy

The Annessa Family said...

Zoey is true light - just like my Kayla. Once you've witnessed heaven on earth - you can't help but want to find it and stay close to it. Totally understand how your world revolves around that little girl - been there.

Happy thanksgiving friend,

Brooke
www.TheAnnessaFamily.blogspot.com

Dria said...

So well said! Happy Thanksgiving to you and your beautiful family!

Joyce said...

So beautifully written. I look forward to the continual journey of Miss Zoey and all your amazing family. Very happy Thanksgiving greetings to you.

Junior said...

beautiful post, Happy Thanksgiving Day.

Elizabeth said...

What a spectacular post with equally amazing writing and photos.

You should be a preacher. It would be a church that I would attend.

Love to you, my friend -- so much love and many blessings your way.

Stephanie said...

Beautiful as usual!

A Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours!

Justine said...

Love the quote. Great picture!

Anonymous said...

Beautiful post & family photo! Happy Thanksgiving West Coast family - wish we could all be together. But... we are in spirit, thoughts and prayers

Love & hugs to everyone

Aunt Bluebelle/Loraine

Anonymous said...

Happy Thanksgiving to the Needham family members,

Once again I enjoyed your beautiful blog and family photo. You definitely are a woman and family of a courageous journey who has the grace to journal every moment with such dignity and sincerity. Zoey is so blessed to have all the wonderful brothers, sisters, and niece along with great parents.

Bluebelle's friend

Ivey's Mom said...

Did you write this or did I? Certain that you did because it is much more eloquent than anything I write. But my friend, as always, you speak my heart.

Hope you had a blessed turkey day. Now on to football.....go Dawgs!!

Michelle said...

Beautiful post, beautiful girl, and beautiful family picture!

Kristin said...

Beautiful family picture! and post :)

ANewKindOfPerfect said...

We have SO much to be thankful for. We are truly blessed. <3

Shelly Turpin said...

Beautiful picture of your beautiful family

Melissa said...

Beautiful post and beautiful picture of Zoey! Love the family picture too!