Hi all. A good friend of mine reminded me that there is no time like the present and that a kind word should not go unsaid.
So I would like to say one to KiwiJ. Or Jen as most of her friends know her.
I am actually coming up on my year anniversary on this board and have gotten to know some of you very well. There is a lot of good advice on the board from some sage people. And frequently someone puts up a post of thanks to them.
I am feeling quite led to take the time to single Jen out amongst the rest. (And not because of the trouncings I give her on Idiotville, this is really from the heart. And yes Jen, I DO have one. <img src="/ubbt/images/graemlins/pfft.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/ubbt/images/graemlins/pfft.gif" alt="" />)
While we are all generally friendly to the wayward spouse as well as the betrayed, usually the wayward spouse doesn't stay. To have their insight and candor is invaluable.
I have never seen Jen ashamed or afraid to confess her mistake if it meant easing someones pain, or helping them come to grips with what they have done.
She has been recovered for two years now. She could have easily moved on with her husband, left the board, and finished out her life in her repaired, sanctified, new marriage and put all the sludge behind her. Instead, she faithfully remains in the trenches, adding her wisdom and support. Stop and think about what she knows now and what this board must be - an almost constant reminder of what she did.
And yet to her, it is worth "picking the scab" to help people she has never met, or may never meet. People she barely knows.
And she does it steadfastly. She is a fixture here.
She is fun, and likes a good romp with those of us who sometimes lack a little class <img src="/ubbt/images/graemlins/crazy.gif" alt="" />. But when a newbie comes on, she is always one of the first to snap to and get down to business. One of the first to convey the warm, "Welcome to Marriage Builders" greeting.
If not everyone knows it, she is actually in New Zealand. So for most of us, she is opposite from our day/night cycles. So what? Think back to the depths of your pain, in your own situations. When were you alone? Sad? Needing a friend? In the wee hours of the morning, plagued by the demons of fresh pain and insomia.
So off to MB you go - and Jen would be there. What a blessing that is! She has almost been the solo night shift for years. Consistent, comforting, and patient. And truly a blessing. I doubt there is a heart here she hasn't touched.
If New Zealand doesn't have a Saint, my votes for Jen.
with respect and admiration,
NCWalker
