Dear Murph,

Thanks so much for giving me this wonderful week with my family and friends and for allowing me to fill my soul with memories I had not thought about for a very long time.  Thanks for the healing that has taken place and for realizing, once again, the importance of family.

Today, Saturday, my brother, sister-in-law and I went to see my nephews and their families.  I had not seen them for many years and one of my nephews has 3 phenomenal children, age 15, 13 and 9.  Although I hadn’t seen them for almost 6 years, they greeted me like I had been part of their life on a regular basis.  My nephew has been sober for 7 years and quit smoking 3 years ago.  He is a devoted father and husband and the love they share is nothing short of a miracle.  My other nephew, his brother, has been sober for 3 years and quit smoking 7 months ago.  He has a good job, lives alone and even though he is usually not a talker, he and I shared a wonderful conversation.  We went to my grand nephew’s little league game where I saw the family all supporting, rooting and praising this little 9 year old kid while his dad proudly stood at his position as first base coach.  It was a day that I will keep in my heart and cherish.

We spent the evening with my oldest friend, Mary and her partner, Ron, looking over old pictures, eating pizza (Chicago pizza is the best) and laughing at some of the many experiences we’ve shared over our 45 year friendship.

I am now packed and ready to catch my morning flight back to Virginia, but this time I am going back with so much more than what I arrived with.  My soul is full of the goodness of people, the triumphs that my family members have acquired on their often tumultuous journeys through life, and the gratitude for the opportunity to be able to witness these blessings first hand.

I am so honored to be part of my family…..to see it grow through many dark times and yet bloom into this beautiful bouquet of respect, kindness, devotion, and total love for each other.  Although the flowers are all different, the arrangement is vibrant, alive and being watered every day.

My brother and his wife still love to be in each other’s company after 16 years of marriage and my nephew and his family are one big bundle of contagious devotion and love that has been made stronger by addressing their trials and tribulations with love and commitment.

I leave this place a different person from the one who arrived her a week ago…one who has witnessed the miracle of love in person, and one who has re-connected with the wonderful people in her life on a deeper level than ever before.

I am tired - a very good tired.  My family is growing and they are such gifts in my life.  I wouldn’t have this if I were still using and their sobriety has made me grateful that I can count myself among them.

It’s been a very good trip home.

I love you, Murph

Till Next Time -

Your Humble Road Warrior