Givers and Takers

Some people are givers and other are takers. It takes all to make the world go 'round. But I sure like being around givers, they seem to be much more pleasant and also cheerful. I truly believe that when people live unselfish giving lives, they make the world and themselves a better place.

For some reason I was thinking this evening about the three major events that have happened in my adult life.

1) giving birth to multiples, which were premature, along with being married to an unsupported (mean) man man at the time who was military and the twins were born Sept 1st 2001. They were ten days when Sept 11th happened. We live off base at the time and their dad wasn't even able to leave base for about a month. I was living in a very small town at the time, I didn't know anyone and had no support. Who came to help me, my mother, that's all. Don't get me wrong, I'm grateful for her support, with out it I may have gone crazy at the time. The funny thing is, she's the family that lives the furthest from me.

2) The divorce (July 2004). Need I say more. I was at risk of loosing my home, I had no job, I had to work with a domestic violence support center and set up and use a safety plan and evacuation to get out of the situation. To make a long story short, who was the one to offer up their house for the twins and I to stay or live at if need be? Again, my mother.

3) Third and hopefully the last, the onset of my illness (Aug 2008). I didn't know if I was ever going to go back to work, some days I couldn't walk or lift a water bottle to drink, I was close to foreclosure, I couldn't drive to the grocery store to get food for the kids. Who called and talked to me daily (until I said I couldn't afford my phone bill anymore) ? Again, my mom. Luckily by this time in my life I had a local circle of support, whom I couldn't have done without. But what about the rest of my family?

My kids are my priority. Their health, well being, happiness, security, etc. Although they aren't spoiled by any means. When I think of my security in the future, it's not how much money I have in the bank, or how much stuff I have, it's making sure my kids are taken care of. I want for them to always have a home and garden to come home to. When/if they ever run into hard times, I/we will be there to help them. Security is knowing you don't have to depend on the government to supply you with food and things. If I keep the home I own in the family and pay it off as soon as I can, along with the garden and all the edible landscaping, my children will never go without. They can choose to purchase their own home someday, but if something happens, they will always have a place to go, and feel welcome!

Thank you to all the givers in this world!! And may your children learn from you!