“Someone I loved once gave me a box full of darkness. It took me years to understand that this, too, was a gift.” –Mary Oliver

Well Within, the nonprofit healing resource center that I’ve been a part of for the past eight years, is closing its doors. I’m filled with sadness but I also feel a wonderful sense of gratitude. I came to Well Within after my first diagnosis of cancer. I was adrift, tired from surgeries and chemo, and wondering what the heck I was going to do with my life. I knew I wanted to live, but I just didn’t know how to do it. Along came Well Within and the Renewing Life program. My life was saved and I found the answer to “now what?”

I’m adrift once again with Well Within closing. This time, however, I know and believe there’s something out there for me. I don’t know what it is but I do know that it will continue to help me grow and heal. My heart today is filled with absolute gratitude for all that I have learned and become. Looking back over the past eight years I learned that I need to continue to seek new sources of enlightenment and courage. I learned I make a difference in this world when I believe in me, and without a doubt, believe in the Great Spirit. I’ve been given gifts, even the sadness and pain. Well Within and Renewing Life taught me how to unconditionally love and forgive myself and others. My spirit is free today because the past no longer scares me, the present is my friend, and the future is filled with opportunities.

In gratitude, I send out blessings of love to all those who have helped me face my fears; to those who held my hand and eased my pain; and to those who love me despite my imperfections. Thank you Well Within, staff (past and present), board, volunteers, donors, and participants for your work, funding, dedication, and for the most courageous stories I’ve ever heard. You taught me well and now I’m, truly, well within.

Is there someone out there who you are so grateful for?