As I am not the first to say this, I will repeat it .  We all at times take for granted the loves ones around us.  The unconditional support, the fact that some just loves you.  I try very hard to validate the people in my life on a daily basis.  I have been through so much loss that I had become dumb to death for awhile.  Then one day it just came all crashing down on me.  I don't understand myself sometimes, but when things are going good for me is when I break.  I don't cause pain for others just myself.  But in causing pain for myself I hurt others.  So, we go back to taking care of ones self is taking care of the ones you love.  I know that the rug can be ripped out from underneath me any day, any time, any where.  So I truly work on the fact that the people in my life "feels" my love and support and it's not just lip service.  I know some of you have probably seen this before but it's a good one and sometimes we need to be reminded:

>Lemonade
>
>This should probably be taped to your bathroom mirror where one could read
>it everyday. You may not realize it, but it's 100% true.
>
>1. There are at least two people in this world that you would die for.
>
>2. At least 15 people in this world love you in some way.
>
>3. The only reason anyone would ever hate you is because they want to be
>just like you.
>
>4. A smile from you can bring happiness to anyone, even if they don't like
>you.
>
>5 . Every night, SOMEONE thinks about you before they go to sleep.
>
>6. You mean the world to someone.
>
>7. You are special and unique.
>
>8. Someone that you don't even know exists loves you.
>
>9. When you make the biggest mistake ever, something good comes from it.
>
>10. When you think the world has turned its back on you take another look.
>
>11. Always remember the compliments you received. Forget the rude remarks.
>
>So...If you are a loving friend, send this to everyone, including the one
>that sent it to you. If you get it back, then they really do love you.
>
>And, when
>life hands you Lemons, call me, I've got the water & sugar.
>
>Good friends are like stars...You don't always see them, but you know they
>are always there.
>
>"Whenever God Closes One Door He Always Opens Another, Even Though
>Sometimes It's Hell in the Hallway"
>
>I would rather have one rose and a kind word from a friend while I'm here
>than a truck load when I'm gone.

That was sweet, so different than what we got caught up in.  I feel bad for Jim, I tried to draw the real him out and he wouldn't have any of it.  I guess the problem is...that may be the real him.  And that's ok.  Hopefully he is a young man and will get more out of life than he seems to be putting into it now.  I don't even know if he's for real.  It's easy to get caught up in the hate of the world for some.  For me, I can really get on my bandwagon for what I believe.  I believe there is good in everyone. 

My kids know that I will defend them to the end.  No matter what I will always be their mother.  No matter what mistakes they may make, I always know their heart.  They have given me their heart and I have given them mine.  Life is tough and it's full of sacrifice.  I'm only glad that I have my life, my laugh, my thoughts and my beliefs.  They must not be too bad because I'm happy.  Happy, Joyous and Free.

Thank you Jimr, for something sweet.