{Gratefulness Week} Life came crashing down…

Written By: Nichole Howson

Just over a year ago my whole life came crashing down (you can read my story here!

I hit rock bottom and had to begin rebuilding my life (you can read my recovery story here! ) I couldn’t do this alone and in the spirit of Thanksgiving, I wanted to take this opportunity to thank all the people who helped me through.

To the family I lived with in Belleville. I want to thank you for being there through those two long and difficult nights. I want to thank you for still loving me even though I turned your whole life upside down. I want to thank you for your continual support and friendship. I will never be able to thank you enough.

To the wonderful family friend whom jumped into action and got in contact with my parents. You saved my life. I will forever be indebted to you. Thank you for your prayers and for caring. I love you so much.

To the Doctors, Nurses and Crisis Workers in the Windsor Hospital. Thank you for your service. Thank you for being the response team that so many people desperately need. Furthermore, thank you for listening, helping and encouraging. In a very stressful and terrifying time you offered the support that my family and I needed.

To my doctor and the team of psychologists… your job cannot be easy. I never realized how many people struggle with the same things as I did until I needed you. Thank you for being the eyes, the ears and voice behind those who struggle with mental illness.

To the lady whom counseled me in her living room. I was so sick when I moved home and full of hurt and anger. Your prayers and guidance brought me to a place where I was able to forgive, let go and become whole. You led me back to a place where I could pray and trust God again. Thank you.

To the pastoral staff at my church. Thank you for your prayers and for listening when I needed someone to talk to. I needed the prayer and I knew that I could count on you for the encouragement and biblical wisdom.

To my blogging team at Defying Shadows… My blog was my therapy. It was my way of working through all the things I was struggling with and helped me get to my place of healing. I could never have gotten there without the help of you beautiful women. I love you all.

To my best friend Jossie. I called you constantly, talking about what I was going through, ranting and asking for advice. Thank you for your listening ear and for your endless friendship. Thank you for the hundreds of giggle filled phone chats. Thank you for the mini vacations to your end of town where I could get away from the stress.

To my siblings. When I moved home your worlds came screeching to a halt. Life got much more difficult before it got better. But you three beautiful souls didn’t take it out on me. You were supportive. You showed love and compassion. You became some of my closest friends. I want to thank you in advance for being supportive through my bad days and for continuing to love me… even if I am a pain in the butt sometimes.

To my parents. You two are the strongest people I know. You took care of me, build me back up when I couldn’t stand on my own and welcomed me back into your home with open arms. You didn’t get angry about my bad decisions. All you cared about was my safety. You make me a better person. I don’t know where I would be without you. Thank you.

To everyone else in my life. Thank you for being a part of this crazy journey. If you’re new here…. Buckle up… the ride is just getting started.

About Nicole Howson:

Nichole is a Social Media Marketing Manager, student, daughter and friend. She’s working on her Marketing Diploma and has a Certificate of Christian Theology. She is an avid coffee lover who enjoys a good movie or book. She takes great joy in organizing, scheduling, and volunteering. Her passion for volunteerism extends specifically to those who are hurting, whether it is emotionally, physically, or mentally.