Sometimes it’s complicated…

We made it.

Through no small amount of effort, we managed to finish up all our projects and pull things together in time for my daughter Maggie’s graduation party on Saturday.

The party went off without a hitch, it was absolutely beautiful, and she loved every minute.

I’m happy and so relieved and still a little exhausted.

But I’m also so, so grateful.

Because honestly, it wouldn’t have happened without a whole lot of help.

At the last minute, my sister decided to fly in for backup.

She spent a week just doing whatever needed to be done, whether it was washing windows or helping us catch up on laundry or running my daughter to school. During the party, she stayed on top of dishes and food so that we could just enjoy visiting with our guests, many we hadn’t seen in years.

She had no judgment for the chaotic state of our life, she just wanted to help make it better.

And I can’t even tell you how incredible, or how humbling it was to experience that gift.

Because the truth is that our relationship—like many families—has been complicated.

Growing up, we weren’t really that close, mostly because she was six years older, and for a long time, we were in different stages of life.

Then, as we got older, we got closer and closer, until we were practically inseparable.

But about five years ago, we had a massive falling out. 

The details aren’t really important, but it was an ugly argument that fractured my whole family. Battle lines were drawn. Everyone had their own perspective. Counseling failed. Feelings were hurt all around.

And my sister and I went from talking almost everyday to not speaking for almost 3 years.

It was awful.

And the worst part about a fight like that is that the longer it goes, the harder it is to fix it.

I missed her so much, but I was too proud to back down.

Ultimately she was the brave one.

For her 50th birthday, she asked me to go with her to Disney World.

It was a little awkward at first, but we ended up having a blast. I guess there’s something to that pixie dust magic!

But two years later, I can honestly say we’re closer than we’ve ever been.

I’m also so grateful that she had the courage to do what I couldn’t.

Just make the first move.

Family relationships are complicated. Believe me, I get it. 

After all, it’s the people who are closest to us, who have seen us at our best and at our worst, who have the ability to cut the deepest.

But in the end, holding on to bitterness and anger and resentment really only hurts you.

Brigitte Nicole wrote, “one of the most courageous decisions you’ll ever make is to let go of what is hurting your heart and soul.” Along those lines, someone else wisely noted that, “holding on to anger is like drinking poison and waiting for the other person to die.”

In other words? There’s so much joy and freedom in just forgiving and moving on.

And so, my challenge for you this week is a tough one. If you too are harboring hurt or anger or resentment somewhere in your life, make the decision to let it go and move on. Or be really brave like my sister and make the first move. 

The result might just surprise you.

Live with purpose, friend, and have an amazing week.

xoxo, Ruth

P.S. I love hearing from back from you and getting updates on your life too! Please feel free to hit reply to this email!

This week’s podcast episode…

What’s cooking in my kitchen…

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