It was June 30, 2010, a day like most others. I saw my husband off to work, had breakfast with our girls and got ready for work. Later, I picked up the kids and made dinner: lasagna and tossed were on the menu. I dropped the girls off at my parent's house around 7pm and I went to my monthly community meeting.
Before leaving the meeting I checked for the "can you bring this or that home' messages. Instead, my oldest daughter sent a text saying that she and her little sister were staying the night at Grandma and Grandpa's house. Makes things easier for me, I thought. I texted back OK and Goodnight. I took advantage of this free time and joined some folks for desert at the Alexis Diner.
It was about 9:45 or 10 when I got home. Why are all the locks on the door? I could not get into our apartment. I called my husband. No answer. I knocked on the door. No answer. 'What the heck is going on?' After what seemed like an eternity, he came to door and said, 'What are you doing here?' Puzzled I answered, I'm home. Then I heard words I never expected to hear, 'You don't live here anymore'. He then closed the door and left me in the hallway confused.
WAIT... WHAT JUST HAPPENED? This must be some kind of joke, not a very funny one, but a joke nonetheless. I stood there counting backwards waiting for the door to open 10, 9, 8...nothing happened. The door never opened. So there I was, standing at the door to my past, looking down at the door of uncertain possibilities. A flood of emotions came rushing over me: anger, disappointment and fear. We had a few problems but nothing that warranted this! I never saw this coming. What would I say to our daughters? Then the faces of our two beautiful girls (then ages 2 & 13) came in the forefront of my mind. I knew I had to get to them. I walked out the door and never looked back.
The next morning (July 1, 2010) I woke up and thought I was in heaven. I was on the floor in a room that was extremely bright. I was blinded by the sun and an eerie silence, except for the sound of birds in the distance. Where was I? How did I get here? Then, I heard my father's voice. I was home, safe and sound. I did not remember how I arrived here, but glad I was. Our family home has always been a refuge to me. What better place to be, especially at a time like this. My mom told me that I walked there. When they asked me what had happened, I simply replied, 'I'm tired"
That was eight years ago, but that's not how the story ends. It is still being written. It is a story that we can all identify with, where the underdogs come back for the win. (Like my Philadelphia Eagles in Super Bowl 52.) Maybe the characters and details are different, but most of us have experienced let downs, heartache and loss.
We can't avoid 'Life's Trials'. It is our response to them that determines our growth or defeat. I am a much better because of them. In time we will see that it was all for our good. I have since forgiven and thanked my ex for having the courage to release us both from that toxic and unhealthy relationship.
I am happy that he has a nice woman in his life that adores our children. We are better parents and better people. Was it easy? ABSOLUTELY NOT! Was I angry? YES! The shame of divorce was hard. My parents were married 52 years until my dad's death in 2015. The journey from then till now has been one heck of roller coaster ride. Some days up, some days down with crazy twists and turns! However, when you keep the faith you come to realize that you are more resilient than you thought.
Every challenge can lead to creativity. Every obstacle offers a hidden opportunity. Every setback, a startup for something greater!
During the last 5 or 6 years, I've done extensive research and study regarding Positive Thinking and Affirmations. Both have been life changing. It is a practice that transforms you and opens you up to a whole new world. A happy, healthy life is not easy, but I believe it is attainable. I am so excited today about the unfolding of my life. I see myself as a blossoming flower going through the process of becoming a better version of myself. Let's ride this roller Coaster together! even in the midst of whatever you maybe facing right now.
Say with me: I am worthy of all the good and abundance that life has to offer me. I am lovable and worthy of love. I experience joy everywhere I go. My way is prosperous. I have a healthy body and mind. All is well in my world.
Fondly yours,
Gabrielle 'Elle' Burton
Other articles by Gabrielle Hill