I have been sitting on this all week because I wasn’t sure whether I should post on Facebook, make a video, or write a blog post. In the end, I decided to go with the blog post because, well, let’s face it, I cry at everything and there was no way anyone would understand me through all of the crying.

Honestly, I am overwhelmed and I don’t know how to adequately share my appreciation for everyone that has reached out to me over the last week.

There really are not enough words in the dictionary to explain my gratitude. All I can say is thank you. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, to everyone who sent personal messages, texts, cards, and commented on my last post. You took the time out of your day to read something you didn’t have to. Then, you took it a step further and took the time to send such loving, encouraging, and sweet words.

It’s been staggering to read all of the stories that I received over the last week or so since my last post. I am both shocked and amazed. There were so many women that shared how they’ve struggled with the loss of a child and faced the heartache alone. My heart truly yearns for them.

Many people thanked me for sharing my story, and a number of people so kindly mentioned how “brave” I am. If I’m being honest, that blog post was the most difficult thing I have ever written. The intention was not to look brave, though I do appreciate their encouragement! Instead, my intention was to show that I am just like everyone else. My family has struggles just like everyone else’s—heartache and loss that we have no control over.

The pain is there whether we keep it held quiet or shout from the mountain tops. It doesn’t change our heartache, but I pray that our stories bring hope to those who are struggling and feeling alone.

This is the reason I started blogging. Not to make a name for myself or to look good on social media, but simply to love on others. The entire purpose of starting This Elegant Life was to share my family’s story and struggles. Our lives are far from perfect—we mess up on the daily. But, I want to encourage those who might be walking a similar road.

Thank you again, for loving on me and my family through this time. You all are beyond amazing and I am blessed and thankful to be apart of such a wonderful community.