“The founder is very special to me. It has not always been that way. She would not allow many to get close to her not even close relatives. Many were not invited to our home. She was very isolated or private. Recently I saw her working really hard to make some changes when I left home and went far away to college and never looked back. She was someone I did not feel comfortable sharing my lows with. I tucked inside as I had learned so well to. She wears a mask and I created one to wear over the years. Recently I saw my mom crying for the first time. She shared some painful experiences from her lifeline with me. She explained it was a part to her pathway journey. As time went on, she introduced me to her new friends, she was line dancing, and she was busy with new goals and organizations. She was different and I began to like it. She was fun. I noticed I would visit home more often and I would attend some of her testimonial events and line dance events. I was learning more and more about her. So much so that her renewed confidence has inspired me to create my lifeline and allow my highs and lows to inspire me. I have heard many stories of my mom’s new friends met through the pathway journey. They look like they are having so much fun in their 50’s.

They talk and share meaningful conversations. Sharing their authentic stories has not changed my view in a negative way, just the opposite I feel comfortable with them. They are genuine and present. She is someone I trust even more now knowing she had some challenges in life. I can go to her and tell her everything and I recently have. I could not imagine going to her prior to her pathway journey; she had unrealistic expectations for herself and for me. Very protective and she was tough. Very difficult to live with at times. Learning her authentic story and seeing her show her real feelings without hiding has given me more appreciation for her. Realizing I am a work in progress also, I also show myself more self-compassion and appreciation also.

The hard work she put in self-care, the boundaries she communicated, her self-confidence coupled with a deeper love for God is admirable.

Mom, you are my hero. Continue to be your caring, compassionate, authentic self. I am so proud of you. I truly like the new authentic you. I want to be a part of your friend circle.”

Love you,
Kayla