Last night I cried myself to sleep thanking God for His grace and mercy.

Three years ago, I didn't have a job. I had one month of health insurance left to cover the $60-100k worth of dialysis treatments I had just learned to perform on my husband. I was failing at said home dialysis treatments resulting in lots of blood loss for my hubby which further resulted in low blood count and iron deficiency.

Three years ago, I could barely sleep from worry. I had to use all of our savings to cover copays and medicine. Three years ago, I was helpless and hopeless. All I had was Faith to make it through the days and nights.

Three years ago, I decided that inspite of it all I would find reasons to smile and laugh. Those smiles and laughs often hid my tears, but it taught me gratitude.

Three years ago, I truly experienced what "in sickness and in health" meant. I learned what strength was. I learned what Faith was.

Three years ago, I was watching my husband die a long, slow, painful death. Three years ago, I was grieving a life and marriage cut short. I was grieving an investment in my career lost. Three years ago, I was lonely and afraid and scared.

Today, these smiles aren't faked. They aren't hiding anymore pain. They are fueled by thankfulness, gratitude, and appreciation for life.

Today, I am ever so grateful that God held my hand through the storm. I know that if I ever fall on hard times again, all I have to do is Trust in Him.

Three years ago, I was a caterpillar...today I feel like a beautiful butterfly 🦋