Hold, my friend...

Stop using comments today to spiral down again. Ok, this morning was a step backward, so you're on the "three steps forward, one step back" part of your journey. That's ok. It's better than 1 step forward, 10 steps back, right?

"Dum spiro, spero." I won't insult your intelligence by reminding you of all the people who clung to hope, love, life, in the face of unfathomable adversity. I'll just remind you of some of your many blessings:

- You have two beautiful, healthy, intelligent, loving children.
- You have food to eat, clothes to wear, and a roof over your head.
- You are living in a place free from war and natural disasters (I think).
- You have a job, in this shaky economy.
- You are fairly healthy, as is your wife.
- Your wife hasn't forged your name or stolen your credit card or emptied out your retirement savings in quite some time.
- You have had more SF lately.

And reasons you can feel good about yourself:

- You are leading the formation of a men's group.
- You provide for your family. (YES YOU DO!!!)
- You are involved in your kids' lives.
- You have honored your marriage vows.
- You have continued to try to make a decent life with your wife. You may sound discouraged a lot of the time (and find me one person on MB who has tried as long as you have and isn't discouraged!) but you ARE still there, and you ARE still interacting with her, and you are even trying to interact in a positive way.
- You give her compliments and try to give her affection and admiration in whatever way you think she needs it.

Things are better this year than they were last year, right? Stop wishing for bad luck and knocking on wood.

For your amusement:

Just a cover, but it's fun watching the baby too!