I am a work in progress. Being married to an amazingly awesome cowboy is a miracle in my life after 23 years of domestic abuse from someone else. Each year, each day is another opportunity to marvel at the wonderful blessing my husband is, as well as our life together and everything in it. But it does not erase the past. It does not erase my hurt. The reality is that I have experienced what has been, and the result of that is my companion -often unwanted but persistent in presence. I am walking the fine line of trying to determine my healthy boundaries and being kind and tolerant of others. I believe that because I care about that -although it is a daily struggle - that the truth will prevail and reveal her ways to me so that I can be healthy. It is through my friends, family, acquaintances - those seen and unseen, and God, that the guidance I need will be found. My prayer is that I might in the same way benefit others in need of a friend, understanding, and guidance.