As we prepare to officially kick off the holiday season here in the U.S. with Thanksgiving this coming Thursday, I wanted to take a moment to share something very personal that underscores my feelings about what the Thanksgiving holiday means to me.
At this time, we remember the story of the Pilgrims who came to America in search of religious freedom and a better life. Having arrived in the New World, these early settlers gave thanks to the “Author of Life” for granting them safe passage to this abundant land and protecting them through a bitter, cold winter.
On October 3, 1789, during his first year as President, George Washington issued a proclamation that set aside Thursday, November 26 1789 as “A Day of Public Thanksgiving and Prayer.”
Among things for which we can be thankful, certainly are our family and our friends. When all else fails, it is to family and friends we turn to for help and support. This annual family holiday certainly underscores just such ties and their importance.
Now For My Very Personal Story…
I consider myself a generally positive, optimistic and happy person, so it’s rather difficult for me to talk about this even today… but here it goes.
Last year was one of the most difficult holiday seasons I’ve ever had. In fact, it was one of the most difficult times of my entire life.
If you’ve ever gone through the process of mending a broken heart, well then you know exactly what I mean. (I told you this was going to be personal)
In my case, the suddenness and unexpectedness of a breakup during the holidays, quite literally brought me to my knees. And I’ll tell ya, it took a long time…far longer than I ever could have imagined…to fully recover from it.
But through the entire process, it was my closest friends and family who were always right there to pick me up and help me get through the darkest of times – to offer a friendly ear, a much needed hug or words of love and consolation.
It’s always been that way. Even as a kid, I remember my very wise grandmother would attempt to console me with one of her favorite sayings.
“This too shall pass.”
Grandma said it the time I was distraught after being rejected by the girl I had a crush on for two years when she checked the “no” box on the note I passed her in class asking if she liked me…
And again the day I was completely humiliated in the 4th grade after leaving an open can of sardines in my desk.
Of course, it’s in the moments you’re feeling the most hopeless and lost, that it’s the most difficult to see the wisdom in cliche verbal antidotes… but you know what? Grandma was absolutely right.
And no matter how bad things got, eventually the clouds always parted and the rays of sunshine would come beaming through again. (Thank you Grandma, I miss you and wish you could be here with us today.)
From my experience of moving from pain into healing, I’ve come to believe it’s in our darkest moments, when life brings us to our knees and we feel the most lost and hopeless… it’s in these times that we have an opportunity to gain one of the most valuable gifts life has to offer.
The gift “forgiveness.”
Thanks to the support of my friends and family, I was able to get through the pain and accept this gift. It wasn’t an easy journey, and in the process, I made many, many mistakes, some that even caused others pain. Yet my friends and family continued to love and accept me no matter what.
What a blessing it is to have people in our lives who love and care about us.
Just yesterday, I had two pretty big bombshells dropped on my lap within about an hour of each other.
It’s crazy, because here we are once again going into the holiday season and out of nowhere, the unexpected happened… bad news followed by more bad news. 
After getting past the initial shock, I must admit I felt myself spiraling into the darkness yet again.
Sometimes life has a funny way of reminding us of where we need to shine the light, don’t you think so?
Cecil and I hanging on Mustache Monday
Anyway, I made a decision last night over a few beers and laughs with a good friend (thanks for listening Cecil).
I made the decision not to let the bad news I got yesterday affect my happiness this holiday season. I accept that what I’m feeling now, though painful, is not permanent.
Or as my grandmother would say, “This too shall pass.”
So instead of focusing on the pain, and thinking about all of life’s little problems (and please don’t ask, because I’m not gonna dwell on it or talk about it), I decided to take some time to really think about what I’m grateful for today, and write this post instead.
My hope is that it will inspire you to do two things.
First, I hope you will offer the gift of forgiveness to someone this week. Try and let go of the past, and accept what is – that we’re all human, we all screw up and that harboring ill feelings for someone only keeps you locked in a prison of self-imposed unhappiness.
Even if the other person has no remorse or feels justified by whatever they’ve said or done, holding hate in your heart is not going to change that and YOU are the one that’s in pain right now because of it.
If you don’t believe me, think about that person right now and pay attention to the feelings, both emotional and physical. Does it feel yucky? I bet it does. Is that feeling serving you in any way? Really think about it.
If you are holding onto guilt for whatever reason, then learn to forgive yourself. This was a tough lesson for me. As I said before, I’ve made a lot of mistakes, and there are some decisions I’ve made that have hurt others. I wish I could take them all back, but I can’t and nothing is ever going to change that. All I can do is accept my mistakes for what they are…
Mistakes are learning opportunities, and a chance to practice the art of forgiveness.
The second thing I hope this email will inspire you to do is think about the people in your life you’re grateful for, and tell them how much you appreciate them and the relationship you have.
Think of your friends, your family, those who were there for you during the tough times in your life.
Think about those who you are just getting to know today. And consider the qualities you are most grateful for. The gestures of friendship, the acts of service, the thoughtful comments and just how they make you feel.
Think about their character and what you value most about them (loyalty, trust, dedication, compassion, empathy, thoughtfulness).
Better yet, make a list out for each person in your life and consider sending them a thank you email or a Thanksgiving Card.
By the way… I want to sincerely THANK YOU for being You.
Thank you for carrying the
torch of entrepreneurship.
Thank you for bringing hope, inspiration and abundance to the world. Without you, our mission to empower and change the lives of 1 million people wouldn’t even be possible.
Together, we are going to change the world and make it a better place.
There’s one more thing I’ll leave you with before I head out to the grocery store to pick up some stuff to prepare the Thanksgiving feast on Thursday…
I’ve found that in giving and accepting the gift of forgiveness, and by expressing gratitude to others, I’ve gained another gift… one of even greater value… a “pearl of great price” if you will.
One that makes all of life’s little problems seem like a little less of a burden.
One that makes the painful times seem a little bit more bearable.
And one that makes life one hell of a lot more enjoyable.
That pearl is “love.”
Thank you… and I love you.
Tim Erway
P.S. – I’d love to hear about the people in your life you’re most grateful for this Thanksgiving holiday. Feel free to leave a comment below. 
Thank-you Tim for sharing your heart with us in this post. I pray that you have a Happy and Blessed Thanksgiving, full of friends and family, love and kindness.
Happy thanksgiving TJ, hope you have a fantastic day, surrounded with the warm glow of loved ones. Take care x
A wound to the heart can be healed but there will always be a scar. The scar is so we never forget either because there was something to be learned or simply so we always hold a place in our heart for someone. Funny but when times are tough I also wisper to myself this too shall pass! Your Grandmother was a smart lady.
I can really relate to your post Tim and I think you are one of the most kindest and compassionate people I have ever had the pleasure of meeting. I read your post word for word
and it really touched my heart!
I used to always think about all the bad that has happened and rarely think about all the good. I wish in the past I had given thanks more for everything God has given me. Now I am always giving thanks even for the simplest things like the keyboard I am typing on now.
Thank you for sharing your touching story and reminding everyone to give thanks Tim! The world really needs more people like you. You are always giving and I want to give BIG thanks to you for that. You have helped so many and I just cannot say enough about your leadership! I love you too and Have a great Thanks Giving!!
Tim,
I lost my dad about 3 weeks ago and never realized that it would be as painful as it has been. Feeling full of regrets and guilt for things I wish I coulda shoulda woulda done to try and change things but I know I can’t.
I have been a magnetic follower since 2008 and I appreciate what you guys do for the industry.
Coming into this holiday season I am thankful to see emails like this that give that extra bump of hope that everything will be ok and the pain will ease.
Thanks Tim.
Tim,
Thanks for sharing such a heartfelt story I too have been the broken hearted person on the receiving end of that relationship but THIS TOO SHALL PASS a great saying we always said in AA 20yrs sober now and on a great journey in life thanks again I will pass on your story for the many to read. have a Great Thanksgiving and enjoy the family
What an inspiring story Tim. Thank you for sharing with us. Wish the whole world could read your inspiring story and learn from it.
Scares are a learning process and is a way to make us grow within. It should be shown in school how to deal with scares as it seems that we only realize later on in life what it’s all about. We should be thankful every single day to be alive and in good health. I’ve lived with scares and anger for a long time. When you realize how to deal with them and accept what is given to you and why you had to go through this path, it shows that you are growing and well on the good path. We learn and grow by our experiences. Which makes us better people.
I am grateful to have read your story and am thankful to have been through and accepting what life has and is offering to me.
I wish you the best Thanksgiving ever and may God Bless Your Soul!!
Have a wonderful day filled with laughter and love!!
Wow…first email I opened today filled my heart up. Thank you Tim for sharing your heart. When I saw the title…”thanks Tom, I love you” from someone who doesn’t even know me except that I’m a fortunate name on a list… my heart felt joy. We CAN change the world. I’ve just entered this world of “entrepreneurship” and I keep finding inspirational leaders who REALLY care, like you. When we share our heart, we share our love. When we share our love with another, they FEEL our love and the world is better in that MOMENT. Thank you for making MY day BETTER for a moment. May God bless you and hold you in the palm of his hand. Happy THANKSgiving.
Thank you for sharing as it blessed me. As it happens I woke up this morning dwelling on those who would not be with us tommorrow; my Granny being one of them. But your words reminded me that in rememberance of her, her love and wisdom never fails to bring her close once more; she is still here for me. This is the true gift we give into the lives of the people we touch.
Hey Tim thank you for sharing and for making your self vunerable.
I really relate to your post, had my spirit crushed my heart smashed, bullied very badly and was once in deep fear for my life after being attacked by three men. I forgive them all and myself for all the mistakes i have made, I release myself and every one who has hurt me.
Happy Thanks Giving Tim
Stay Blessed and a Blessing
Phil Campion
Awww – we love you too Tim, and although I don’t live in the US, I will be raising a glass to you all tomorrow and hope that you are able to enjoy your Thanksgiving.
Forgiveness is the greatest gift we can give… ourself. It shows what a truly evolved person you are, walking the walk of Magnetic, that you can express this, rise above and recognize that your support network is what gets you through.
Thank YOU for supporting us in our entrepreneurship journey and dream manifesting. You rock, Tim!
life has a way of tripping us. the fall hurts because it is unexpected, so it is uncontrolled, the ‘heal’ puts us one step closer to being on a better path.
The falls in life hurt when they are unexpected and uncontrolled, it’s perspective of the situation that helps you grow or get weaker from it. Yes this too shall pass, but will it take you with it or will you carry it with you?
Thank you so much for sharing. Sharing our pain and sorrow helps us to forgive and heal. Lately I have realized what wonderful friends I have. I do not live close to any of my family except for my son and daughter and my parents have passed on so I have realized what special people my friends are and how thankful I am to be so blessed with these wonderful people. God has truly blessed me.
One thing a lot of people have started in our organization is a gratitude journal. Everyday we jot down what we are grateful for that day. This helps us to stay positive and remind us that no matter what bad things happen we always have good things in our lives too.
Tim, As I said in your email to me, I can’t believe, though I am a believer in Jesus the Christ, that this email came to me as I planned my demise in my backyard. I am 67 years young and the woman I love more than life itself left me two days ago after leaving me a message two days before that signed, “your loving wife,(her name with my name as hers.)Thank you for the extra time to consider my decision. I am not even a member of Magnetic Sponsoring but this was welcome timing. God bless you for your words and Gods timing.
Hello Tim.
Thanks for shearing this with us.
I’ve read every word on your post as I’m in exactly the same situation you were a year ago. My girlfriend dropped me a month ago after 5 wonderful years. We were planning to get married next year. So you know exactly how I feel right now.
Without my family members and friends I would be probably dead right now. I’m very thankful to my mother. Her love and support is the most I need right now.
And no matter how difficult is now, I know this too shall pass.
Thank you Tim and happy thanksgiving
Laurynas L.
how a terrific that your story can “touch” indeep my heart at all..Like a novelist written his story lines to the book. You have a good character that bend by your good harmonic in your family itself between their love and care off. It makes you more emphaty and full of love too, keep it up always. Happy thankgiving
Thank you for sharing your story. It’s a nice reminder of the importance of friends and family. To be there for them and to allow them to be there for us. Happy Thanksgiving.
What an enigmatic appeal!And it really touched me.Thank you so much Tim.I felt as if I am so close to you and the people who replied to your message.I forgot about thanksgiving till I read it.I forgot this gift of forgiveness,too.I found myself grasping the inner chamber of my heart,reminiscing..;with the feeling that it makes my heart cleansed.Accept my deepest gratitude.I love you too,Tim.God Bless!
Hi Tim:
When I get a little down, I think of
all the pain and anguish Jesus Christ went
through with the humiliation and rejection
the nails piercing His hands and feet as
He hung on that cross. Then all He said
was Father forgive them for they know not
what they do. And He forgave us. All we
have to do is except Him.
Thank you, Tim, for opening your life and sharing this personal story. I relate to your post, had a heart crushing breakup during the holiday season several years ago. It was emotionally devastating and the healing was difficult. Learning to express gratitude for those times together, and forgiving that person as well as myself, I moved forward. The scars are there, lessons learned and adding to my wisdom.
I’m very grateful to spend spend Thanksgiving with my mother and family!
Happy Thanksgiving!!
Thanks for sharing that personal story, Tim. What’s funny is that my grandmother also used to tell me the same thing during times of trouble. “This too shall pass” I can still hear her voice saying that whenever I’m having a difficult time. And it’s true. Keep your head up and continue moving forward and it shall pass.
Love you my friend!!
wonderful story and lessons…
Tim, you have great success AND great gratitude. That’s a level of living and wealth most never achieve. It’s all about Excellence, Passion AND Gratitude! Thanks for reminding us, and thanks for your Leadership. I just know even greater things are ahead for you. Happy Holidays!
Thank you all for your loving words and grateful hearts. I really appreciate each and every one of you.
@Robert – There is nothing more devastating or painful than the feeling of being abandoned by the one you love. I sincerely hope you will seek help before making drastic decisions like the one you’re considering right now. I know it seems like you’ve lost a part of yourself and it feels like an empty void that can never again be filled, but my friend that’s just not true. You are not alone, and I promise you what you are feeling right now, though it seems like the worst kind of pain in the world, is not permanent.
Gulp – I had one of those breakups…long time ago but remember it vividly. Thank you, Tim for a timely and hope-filled message. There is someone I need to forgive and a little nudge is just what I needed.
Happy Thanksgiving to all:-)
Love,
Tracy
What a gift… an amazingly touching and heartfelt posting. Thank “you”, Tim… for opening yourself and sharing. Whatever difficult times you may be enduring, trust that you have people out here (in addition to your closest family and friends) who are sending you positive vibes, prayers, and a lot of love.
You know, you struck a chord with me, as like your grandma, my mom always used to help me through hard times using the phrase “… and this too shall pass.” She got it from her mom. Obviously my grandma said that, too. =) I miss them. We miss our moms tremendously.
It seems it is not until we go through some very rough times, and we get through them stronger and wiser than we were prior, that we truly understand the criticality of that phrase – at the gut level. You have learned and grown, my friend. We are very sorry for all of the pain you’ve experienced. Remember to keep the positives in your heart alive.
Sending an abundance of blessings, love, and light to you.
Tim, you have inspired me today to write a one word description of a team of 86 women. These people have given their time, talent and treasurers to put on a retreat for more women to experience God’s Grace and Forgiveness in a way like nothing else here on earth. Thank you and may your territory expand way beyond the measure of one million. It needs to be SO big, that you can’t possibly take the credit in order to see God’s handiwork in your life.
Happy Thanksgiving and I love you too.
Tim, first of all I just want to say that you really threw me off when I got an email from a man that told me “I love you”. I’m single, so that never happens. Ok so on a serious note, I thank God for you and for what you are doing for all of us. Always remember that no matter how bad things can seem for us at times, there is always someone else who is worse off than us. Even on the worst day of our lives there is always something to be thankful for. Happy Thanksgiving Everyone. Peace and Blessings to All.
Hi, Tim I really appreciate you sharing about your feelings and experiences in this post. It is very inspiring for you to share your humanity with us! I think a lot people have this incorrect notion that the world is perfect with you more experienced and successful marketers.
I think it is very refreshing for you to share that even though your at the top of your game in this industry that you still have navigate the experiences of life, good and bad just like everybody else in life!
I am also enduring the uncomfortable feelings from being in a relationship that has failed to work. I’m also struggling to make
money as an entrepreneur in this industry. So I’m not a happy camper!
But I do realize that my fortunes are going to get better!
I’m watching you guys everyday I’m beginning to understand how folks
like April Marie Tucker,and yourself have positioned yourselves as
leaders.
So please keep up the Great work in inspiring the rest of us!
Thanks, with plenty of gratitude! Aaron Morgan PS! I need help!
Thanks for sharing and opening up Tim,
As I like to always say “it all works out in the end” or I try to look as though it were meant to be….As things like this have happened to me I went through similar feeling and even hatred, though those feelngs fade away as new and often better things come into your life.
So we all love you too!
Dave Gardner
You made my day. THis year, I was going through the most challenging situation of my life. I hit the depths of depair with my business It was truly the scariest time of my life. I had to rethink everything about my business. my faith, and my overall life. I have come to realize that when people really get real with their lives, relationships, it can be totally sobering. Now I am trying to save my home, business, and rental property, Yes, I am totally grateful for everything. I admire anyone that can be vulnerable to be totally real. I had numbed my feelings for many years. My wonderful mother and closest friedn stood by me until I could get my head straight, THank you so much. I totally love your honesty. It is so refreshing. With great love for you and your message.
Great post, Tim. Very poignant. Forgiveness is huge and we all must practice it all the time. When we don’t forgive, we are the ones who get hurt the most. Thanks for taking time on this and I pray your bad news will turn into something good for you. Blessings, Amy
Tim,
Thank you for sharing you’re story. I understand you’re pain. I’ve also had the pain of losing a ex-husband, who remained a friend, throughout life. Although we were apart, we still communicated daily, about the kids, past history, our old friends, and family members. Even my mothers recipes. We were able to laugh, share a good joke, and understand each others pain & sadness. And cheer each other up,when necessary. Skip passed away this past March, a sudden heart attack, and I miss talking to my old friend….so now, every day, I say “good morning, Skip, how’s your day,in Heaven? I think he smiles, and answers me in his own way. Have a great, Healthy,happy, Thanksgiving,Tim. Luv, Marcella.
“We can never learn to be brave and patient if there were only joy in this world…”
Adversity offers each of us the opportunity to become courageous and extraordinary…even though it sure can be tough to get there sometimes.
Happy Thanksgiving with much love and kindness to each of you and your families.
Tim,
I pray you have a wonderful and joyous Thanksgiving. Seems I remember my Grandma telling me the same thing. Please be safe, enjoy and be thankful for everything and everyone in your life. May God Bless my friend.
My thoughts are with you. Even from this end of the world in Australia. Sharing means others will care and support you.
Life is a gift. Be happy in this moment for this moment is your life.
Just ask for help or support and you will receive.
Kind Regards
Gail
Happy Thanksgiving Tim.
I am thankful every day for the people that enter my life and allow me to enter their’s. My family and good friends have always been there even though most times I didn’t let them know that I needed a helping hand but I was always and will always be front and center for them.
My 6yr old Grand-Daughter has so graciously been sharing her bunk bed with me and said Grand- Mamum you can stay as long as you need to. For that I am eternally grateful.
So Tim I know how it feels. Chin up keep smiling, there are others out there who need that smile to tolerate their day.
Big warm hug to you Tim
Prends soins de toi.
wow. Tim thanks for your surprised and loveable story.it inspire me for better life and keeping me on the hope. . . ” yes, you gave what you take” mean we have to take the turn for the better.
really I apperciate you from bottom of my heart and wish you endless success. Hppy thanks giveing.
Thanks God bless you.
Tim:
Thank you for the Great word of Thanks and Encouragement. Often life speeds up to a point that we forget to stop and be grateful for those in our lives. We get so busy we forget to tell those people how much that mean to us and how we love them unconditionally. I am Thankful for so many people in my life and the wondrous things in my life. Good to have a reminder to stop…and appreciate them all! May everyone have a Happy and Love filled Thanksgiving! God Bless!
Jeffrey
Tim,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Your grandmother seems like she was a very wise person.
Enjoy the holidays as best you can.
Kurt
Thanks Tim. Time sure has a way of changing things, especially those we love. We can overcome our adversities through persevering hope and courage, undying love and forebearance, kindness, goodness, and compassion. Forgiveness sets us free. Gratefulness brings us blessings. I am extremely grateful for those who stuck with me through the hard times. May we all learn to forgive and be grateful.
Have a great Thanksgiving! Peace be with you =D
Moving and inspirational words dear friend! You have given and shared your deepest thoughts and with that you have moved on and strengthened both you and all who read your story. I feel so privileged to have been included— Thank you!
I come from a land downunder and far away all of you who celebrate Thanksgiving. However I feel so fortunate to have visited friends in the US who kindly invited us to share their feast. It was an awesome experience which I will not forget.
I have read all the kind and loving comments above and feel privileged to have shared in such a positive atmosphere where good things happen and take away pain.
May God richly bless you Tim.
This was very touching and inspiring! When I let go of guilt by forgiving clarity comes in and allows inspiration to flow. Have a wonderful thanks giving and God bless!
Hi Tim,
I admire you and thank you for sharing this heartfelt story. So many people are out there that are in so much pain and have nobody to share with. I myself was one of these people. I have been told that I am a very strong person, but I certainly didn’t feel that way at the time. I believe it was and is divine intervention that helps me through the rough roads in my life.
I am so grateful today that I got through that tough time, and yes there have been more heart wrenching times since, but “they too did pass”. You never totally forget, but I believe that every day is a blessing. I am eternally grateful to God first of all, to my wonderful husband, my family and the many incredible friends I now have in my life. We always have to remember that there is ALWAYS something to be grateful for. I live by the quote of Winston Churchill….”Never, Never, Never Give In”.
Thank you for your inspiration and I wish you blessings abundantly this Thanksgiving and always.
Judy Bryant
This holiday season I like to say I am grateful for my family for giving the Love and care to my son as he grows older, he is 6 and I went through an awful time losing him because of a a painful addiction, I thank god that the addiction no longer controls my life, and my son is being very well taken care of by his older brother and his wife Patrick and Ashley I love you and forgive you and my heart is still hurting for my loss, I am truly grateful for what you have brought in my sons life.
This is also very hard to talk about for me, iv’e learned that forgiveness sheds a much brighter light on the situation. Thank god for the blessings in my life, I love you Landon, and MIke I love you to!
I opened my email this morning, just getting to start work, and this beautiful email hit me. Thank you Tim for reminding us that we have SOOOO much to be thankful in our lives.
We are always wanting more without really being thankful for the gems we do have in our lives.
Frances
When I was 60 years of age, the lady that I was dating was 12 years older than I and 12 years younger than my Mom.
The three of us went out to a Seniors Dance Hall every weekend. We would dance to Latin American Songs and Instrumental beats as well as Songs from the 50′s both in French and English from a DJ.
During the Month, A Diner Dance, there was always a reason to dress up. Christmas, New Years, St Valentines and etc;
There was always food to finish off the evening.
When ever for what ever reason we disagreed on certain things that went on in our lives at the time, she had a way of doing and saying things to me.
“You Know I Still Love”, and gave me a Hug.
I feel as if I have not given enough thanks for all the things she did for me when we were together. I will always remember the Good things we shared.
Since that lady passed away (Feb/2001) She wholes a special place in my Heart. There is not a day goes by that I want to be with her.
Happy Thanksgiving.
I think each holiday gets harder and harder. They say it eases with time, but it hasn’t with me.
Almost two and a half years ago, I lost my Dad. I could not rescusitate him and he was “gone” before the paramedics even arrived. My son was there too, and he just idolized my Dad. He was only 11 years old at the time. This, of course made the holidays hard to bear.
Then last year, a few days before Thanksgiving, we lost my nephew to a gun misfire. He was only 20 years old. He was like a second son to me, since I was his live-in nanny til he was 14 years old. Again, this made the holidays especially hard to bear.
Don’t get me wrong, I’m extremely grateful to still have MY son and all of my family/friends that are still here. I just long to see my Daddy and my nephew again. I’m sure I will in His time. The Lord hath giveth and the Lord hath taken away.
I am thankful for my faith. It is what gets me through each day. It is what teaches me “And this too shall pass”….a saying my Grandma taught me as well. For some reason this one doesn’t want to pass.
Happy Thanksgiving everyone. Be grateful for the people in your lives. You never know when it will be your last moment with them.
May God bless you all,
Amanda
I’ve felt the same way and it’s hard to go through, but having true friends makes it easier. Now, God has given me the most fantastic wife who is my best friend.
With God all things are possible.
Kelly Sean Hamilton
Dear Tim
What a beautiful spirit you have and what amazing timing. I lost my sister who during her life i didn’t apreciate as i should have and i did not tell her just how much she meant to me and how much i loved her. She died exactly 10yrs ago and it still feels like yesterday. I have my good days and i have my bad days. Today was one of those really bad days because i found one of her pictures and i fet my heart break all over again. Thank you so much for your message. I know now that she will always be with me. Instead of mourning i should be celebrating her life. You are an amazing person to have opened up the way you did. I really hope with all my heart that you have the best thanksgiving ever. You will meet a woman who deserves you and loves you for te man you are. I hope that happens for you soon. Never give up on love. What is life without love? All the best. We love you too.
Thank you for sharing your story. I believe all of us can relate to this story one way or another. We all have had to go through difficulties and rely on time to let us pass through the undesirable moments in our lives. This also holds true to the “great” moments in our lives, they too shall pass on. What remains certain is the faith and beliefs that we carry in our heart.
Thanks for sharing this story Tim and you are right with your views on gratitude. Everyone we come into contact with enriches are lives in some ways and for that I am grateful.
Gratitude and love go hand in hand and we must learn to love everyone and everything we come into contact with, starting with ourselves.
Dave
Thank you Tim for sharing! It is just a simple reminder that we are all human, and we all hurt in some way or another. I learned a long time ago to keep in my mind with every person I meet to be forgiving and kind, because every person we come into contact with is in essence like a child, still learning, growing, and carrying some sort of pain. Forgiving is really loving yourself, giving you the freedom to love others. Ahhhh.
Thanks for sharing that with me. This year has been a very difficult year for me emotionally,phisically,financially and spiritually,but I am so gratefull to my familly and friends who have been so surportive and above all thanks to the almighty
You have much love and support from all of your friends here. Have a blessed and happy Thanksgiving!
Tim, you made my day better!
Thanks for share such a heartfelt story , I think we all went through similar feeling at least once.
Your great work is inspiring to us, keep up!
Love and blessings!!!
Thank you, Tim. Initially when I came online I was going to delete your mail. For some reason, I felt an urging to read it.
I am glad I did.
Like you and so many others, I am going through something that has taken me down a very dark hole.
Unlike many, I do not have any immediate family members.
However, I am grateful for two of my best friends who came to my rescue. They have been my “angels”. Secondly, I am grateful of a loving family that have adopted me recently. They love me unconditionally. Thirdly, I am grateful to you Tim. For disclosing your pain, in doing so you have reinforced the idea that we are not alone. (Sometimes, it is easy to forget).
Tim, I love you too.
Happy Thanksgiving.
Marcy
Tim, thanks for the inspiration and reminder of gratitude and forgiveness. As we begin the holiday season, our hearts must turn to one another. Otherwise we find emptiness in the hectic craziness found in the commercialization of the season. Thanksgiving is a perfect way to make our mind right. Hang in there – we all love you too!
Thankyou for sharing as a beautiful story have a blessed Android wonderful. Life and keep smilin. Love and respect
Deep and meaningful thoughts expressed in the way you have can be so encouraging to those of us who are perhaps experiencing similar moments in our lives; in the big picture they are, effectively, just moments. Those moments should not be allowed to control our present and future so your timely reminder to us to be forgiving, grateful and have gratitude for the better moments we have enjoyed is most welcome, not just at your thanksgiving time, but at any time.
It is unfortunate that many males are unable for whatever reason to tell another male, “I love you.” It took me many years to do so but I have no qualms in telling you , “I love you, too.” Nor do I now have issues telling my sons, and daughters, “I love you.”
It would be so nice if many more around the world could express the same words to those around them.
A very grateful Ron, from Australia
Thanks Tim!
I’ve never met you and only know you by your blogs. However, I feel like I could appreciate sitting and talking to you personally. Forgiveness … Love … you appear to have a greater faith within you than many could understand. It’s no wonder that you have been blessed. God bless you and your family this holiday season.
David
HI TIM,i want to say thankyou for sharing that post with me.
there is someone that i have been very angry with, this person
wrote a lot of things on facebook to me that were very uncalled for, blasted me with very unkind words over something that was between myself and someone else. i cant repeate the things that were wrote to me. i dont think that i have ever been this at someone in my whole life. i have been trying to forgive and get over this anger for around 5 or 6 months now. i believe that you are right, i should just forget about it. i amm still very hurt over what went on but not as angry now. heres hopeing that i can let it go. thank you for your advice TIM and may you and yours have a wonderfull THANKSGIVEING. YOUR FRIEND CLARCIE BROWN.
Tim, great story… I broken is definitely something hard to mend. When we put soo much ‘stock’ in something we have then it goes… it leaves a big scar. I would love to say that don’t put too much stock in anything, but when it comes to people and if we wanna experience true intimacy and sharing then we have to make our selves vulnerable and sometimes it does not pay off! Happy thanksgiving!
I touched this words i felt good to change my life (Mistakes are learning opportunities, and a chance to practice the art of forgiveness) and Thank you for bringing hope, inspiration and abundance to the world. Without you, our mission to empower and change the lives of 1 million people wouldn’t even be possible.
Together, we are going to change the world and make it a better place.
Thank you very much TIM.
Dear Tim, Thank you for your personal story. I have recently received some heart wrenching news and amidst the pain I am reminded of what I am grateful for. Life has an odd mix of experiences and I truly believe that our souls are here to be strengthened and tested. I appreciate you taking over the reins for Mike and you continue to be a fine mentor.
Thanks Tim for sharing your story with us i am from the Carribean and also had the same thing said to me when bad or sad thing happen “That to shall pass” so i am wishing you a holy and blessed Thanksgiving
Tim, your story really inspired me because I am just in the situation of separation right now. I just can’t let life continue to torment me and put me out of place. Thank you once again even when no body is around to rub shoulder or even to cheer me up.
Delores.
Solomon Islands.
Hello Tim,
I have always told my children “Life is full of lessons, only when you repeat them are they mistakes”.
Thank you for your insight. You are a strong man to share these feelings.
I hope you and all those who sees this message have a wonderful and majical Thanksgiving.
I feel the Love
Sunday
Happy Thanksgiving Tim and thanks for sharing your story. My story is identical to yours, but it had happened 15 years ago. I was surprised that it happened on Thanksgiving, not before or after. At that time I didn’t know the meaning of forgiveness but put myself in the place of a victim and wonder “why”, but a year later I understand that was a blessing that’s why it was given to me on Thanksgiving.
Tim, thank you so much for sending me your story…i enjoyed it soooo much…and what made me decide to write and thank you is your last reply person Delores… well, Delores is my mothers name…may she rest in peace and my dads name is Solomon…and that’s where Delores is from….The Solomon islands (delores tthe one that replied to you… and last but not least…my last boyfriends name was Tim…(we been apart almost six monts now… i loved him ssoooo much….but thats the way life goes…you never really know what the futre holds….i hope you have a wonderful thanksgivig… i know i will.. love you ..and thanks again.(smile)
Thank you for sharing, I do not get along with my brothers and although I have forgiven them, I cannot take the chance of letting them ever hurt me again, therefore I spend the holidays by myself, which is very hard to do.
I completely feel what you are saying, thank you for sharing.
God Bless!
Lance Lovejoy
Thank you for sharing. I agree we need to move on and live in the present and Gives thanks. Holding onto to the past is detrimental
and it holds one back from progressing. I have come to terms with a lot heartache. I was married for 17 years and was unhappy. I finally walked out of the relationship. 3 years later my spouse was murdered. I battled to come to terms with all of this for months. I finally realised that I was still hanging onto the past.
I took a deep look inside of me and finally all the peices came together. I have made my peace and can now move on.I am Thankful that God is always looking down on me and I feel better.
Thank you for sharing your story with us. You are absolutely right about gratitude and forgiveness. Happy Thanksgiving and take care-love you too!
Thank you Tim for such beautiful words and sharing your love to the world. That exact quote or phrase is what I have taped to my laptop above my keyboard “This Too Will Pass – It is a Temporary Moment.” It is always in view of my sub conscious mind when I open my laptop every day, to remind me when the going gets a bit tough.
When I look back at how I reacted to bad situations in the past, I am so very grateful that I now have a different mindset, I am now able to forgive myself and others for what was my past. Another saying that is close to my heart is “The Past Does Not Equal The Future”
Enjoy Thanksgiving
With much love
Joan
Tim,
I just came home from a stressful customer service job, cracked open my e-mail and read your letter. Right now I am most thankful to you for helping me to press the reset button with your story! It’s important to spend time in gratitude every day. I have also experienced tremendous loss during the holiday season and fortunately for me have had supportive friends and family to help me through.
But you know what? The”person” that I am most grateful for during those times is my dog. When times have been bad, my dog makes me get out of bed, makes me go outside, forces me to breathe and walk and move forward. He tells me I’m fabulous and that he needs me and that life is great. He reminds me that having legs and eyes and a nose is really something fabulous. I love my family. I love my husband. I love my friends. But my dog is in EVERY thank you prayer that I send out. And you better believe he is getting some turkey.
My Dearest Tom:
I’m trying to compose myself after reading your story. It reminded me of why I should continue to take things one day at a time.
My parents would also say “This too shall Pass”, which I’ve tried to apply in times of sadness, grief and loss for 50+ yrs. now. However, I’ve had so much pain and grief that I tweaked it a little to “Today, this too shall Pass”.
Yesterday, I thought my heart would just burst from my chest as I was so heavy hearted. I’m facing a potential breakup after 10+ years that could leave me homeless. I said potential because I’ve prayed for God to strengthen this relationship that has been coming apart at the seams for the past year. I was also thinking about how painful it was remembering the anniversary of my former husband’s death being the same day. And, if that wasn’t enough, I was dwelling on the relationship prior to my current one having ended in a suicide.
To Robert: I hope you get a chance to read some of my story and that in spite of this (and much more to it I won’t share), I truly feel in my heart that God has NOT forsaken Me or You. I will be on my knees asking God for his grace and mercy for you. Robert, had it not been for his grace I would not be here today for a number of reasons. One of those reasons is the incurable brain disorder I am battling right now.
So to Tim, Robert and anyone else who is struggling with pain or loss, remember my mantra — “Today, this too shall pass”. Say this upon arising each day. And if you are so inclined, before going to bed also say ” Thank you God for your amazing Grace & Mercy”.
God bless you all and remember to “Keep the Faith”!
TO GODs ARMY OF BELIEVERS, although we don’t know him, Please pray for our brother Robert above. Be Blessed!
Thank you! Your mail has definitely the nicest subject title I’ve received for a looong time!! I’m sorry though to hear about the bad things you’ve just gone through. What your grandma used to tell you is so true though…. We all meet our deal of difficulties in life, but somehow we must learn to accept and forgive, and move on with our lives. For the bad times though, I wish there was a “fast forward” button you could press, and for the good times, I wish there was a “pause” or “repeat” button to press….
Happy Thanksgiving to Everyone!
Happy Thanks giving Tim
First thanks for sharing your personal story, I understand( at least having gone through very dark times over the last 3 yrs)
but one thing for sure, As the cloud pass, one becomes a stronger and wise person, this has been my experience, one becomes aware of what to choose and discard, meaning we are aware of what is important and what it is not. As painful as it is, pain earns us wisdom, it brings out Real true and loving friends and family.
Forgiveness is the Key and i read somewhere the other day how to disengage the negative Energies
MY GIFT FOR YOU TIM THIS THANKSGIVING IS
ANYTIME/MOMENT A NEGATIVE THOUGHT/NOTION COMES PLEASE SAY THIS
I DON’T KNOW YOU!
Practice this and its astonishing how strong those 4 words are.
after holidays holla me and let me know how you are fairing!
Happy thanks giving Tim, I miss Mike, pass my love and regards to all the MS TEAM.
love
Am so thankful for all the God has done to my life and to the lives of my friends and relatives i really appreciate you Tim for the remind.
Blessings to you, Tim. And thanks. We have all had our trials and tribulations and they will never cease. But, it is how we deal with them that gets us through the tough times and gives us a semblance of smooth sailing. I am grateful and have much love in my heart for my family and all my friends and try to convey that to them each and every day. We have to remember that “when the going gets tough, the tough get going.” God bless you and yours this holiday season and beyond. Much Love.
Thank you Tim, thank you for sharing and passing on your love and gratitude to me in a very heart felt message. We don’t celebrate Thanksgiving here in Australia and maybe we should. After reading your message it made me stop and think of and be thankful for my family and friends because without them, life would be very empty and lonely. They are my pearl because I love them dearly. Enjoy your pearl of love and have a wonderful Thanksgiving!
Thanks you for sharing your love to the world and for giveness
thanks. take care love you too
Happy thanksgiving Tim!
Thanks for sharing your story and it definitely isn’t easy sharing it, so thanks for the courage to do so with such a large crowd of people. It definitely isn’t easy forgiving someone and letting go of what they may have or have not done to you.
I shall embrace this spirit in this season! Once again, happy thanksgiving my friend!
Darren Spruyt
Hi! Tim,
Thank you so much for sharing this painful time you´re going through
with words of love and greatfulness.I fully sympathize with you as I
went through that 4 years ago. It´s difficult and sometimes you just
think that you´ll never recover from it but never listen to that voice.
I have learned from experince that our loving God the Father of comfort always has in his tresure better things for us all.Today He has brought somebody very special in my life so I´m having Thanksgiving everyday.
My prayers to you is that the Lord make you whole.
Wish you all at there in the States and wonderful day and eventhough
I´m greatful that my whole family left Cuba to live in freedom in
that wonderful land….I will be more greatful if you let me just
smell the turkey once is done
Happy holiday and my blessing to all!
Thank you for the story I two have been through a lot these years my fathers death, my Uncle’s, death losing jobs losing everything but my two daughter s and Mom and brother have been there for me I thought I was going to lose my mind when my Dad died I was his little girl he was my rock. So for this Thanksgiving I am grateful for my family for many things my youngest daughter has been a great help and my oldest has made me dance again and for the hugs thank goodness for the hugs. So, to everyone out there with out any one here is my big Hug to you I Love all of you.
Deborah
Tim,
Thanks for sharing. I am 52 and dealing with the pain of my fiance leaving me suddenly. I don’t feel hate for her at all. Love and longing are my feelings. I won’t say more other than the fact that I am a believer and this has literally forced me to my knees and I am so very glad to find Jesus there at my side. I still love her though she may never return . We were supposed to have started pre marital counseling in September, which makes this period very painful. To the other Robert who’s wife left him, you are my brother in Christ and I will pray for you when I finish this post. Please don’t take your life, the Lord doesn’t want you to do that. He gives us many avenues for help and healing. Please reach out for them. God loves You and so do l your brother – Robert.
Thanks for sharing this very personal story and great message; All grandma’s are, and have been awemazing!
I know very well how you felt…been there, done that and was so lucky to have some tremendous friends and at the same time a door opened which surround me with the most warm, caring, giving, genuine people I have ever met…who knows where I would have been without them?
Even very positive people like us have things happen which are difficult to understand and deal with…
I also feel grateful and, although a European, am thankful EVERY day.
Thanks again Tim and God bless,
Jan
Tim thanks for sharing with us on a day that no matter what life has throng you….just reflect and look for the message which usually has a positive side to it. Unfortunately we usually dwell so much on the down side we miss the greatest part.
Happy Thanksgiving to all.
Thanks for sharing Tim! I still remember losing my grandfather over 20 years ago like it was yesterday. I carried the scars of losing him for a very long time. From as long as I could remember he was a huge part of my life. To me he was larger than life. When he died suddenly, my world as a child came crumbling down around me it seemed. The passing of the years have healed the hurt and I treasure the memories of the good times I shared with him. I remember today, “this too shall pass.” Today I thank God for His amazing grace!
Tim,
I’m thankful that there are people like you and Mike in the world. We’re heading in to a storm and we need to get the word out to anyone willing to listen. I hope your hurt passes soon. And I’m glad that you had the heart to share it with us. Have a most blessed Thanksgiving.
Warmly,
Stephen
Thanks Tim!!
For sharing a piece of your life experience with all of us…It truly touched my heart,because at this right moment, i am facing with a very difficult dilemma in my life. I could write a book about it! But like your grandmother used to tell you “This shall pass” i put those words in my mind and are applying that great knowledge…Every difficult moment is only temporary,everything you learn from those experiences are and will form the strong character in you. I like the way you talk about forgiveness…that’s an area i am learning to apply as well.
I appreciate your words of encouragement Tim…may God continue to bless you and your family abundantly. Happy Thanksgiving day!
Thank Tim for remind me of “My 2011 THANKFUL LIST”
Eventually, like it had a mind of it’s own,
my hand made it’s way to the paper and…
Then I started to write…and write…and write.
The only thing flowing faster than the ink from my pen were my tears of happiness and joy.
As I was writing I realized that all of our challenges this year have brought us closer…NOT
farther from each other.
I have more love in my heart and more to be thankful for this year than I can ever remember.
After pouring out a record of over 4 handwritten pages…I felt like something was missing.
It didn’t take me long to figure out what it was…
So I freshened up my coffee (coffee happened to be on my 2011 Thankful List) bolted
upstairs…
Sat down at my trusty computer and I’m now sending this note to YOU.
THANK YOU!
I am so thankful that our paths have crossed.
I am thankful YOU are in my life! Wow! I feel totally complete now:-)
Thank you for listening and letting me share.
Have a Happy Thanksgiving and I pray you find your thankful place no matter what
challenges you may have had this year.
Thankfully,
Selamat
As my mom always said, you don’t know what you’ve got ’til its gone so make sure you don’t take others in your life for granted. Easier said than done sometimes in this “gotta do everything by yesterday” world. Sometimes I wish this roller coaster life would just let us get off and relax at bit….my goal for the upcoming year – take time to appreciate what you have and don’t take anything for granted.
Thanks for sharing – it hit a chord.
Thanks Tim for this BEautiful message.
We have to look at the bright side of things rather than dwell on the bad or it will tear us up. I did not get to spend this Thanksgiving with my honey or my kids, but I did get to spend it with my mom and dad, brothers, sister, neices and nephews, so I am grateful for that, but I really missed spending time with my boyfriend and my boys. Not as drastic as your story, but I am still sad today.
“This too shall pass” has always been one of my favorite expressions for me when I’m facing a difficulty or challenge and I share that expression with my children and others when they are facing difficulties. It is true, that period of challenge will pass and we learn from it. Mary Kay of Mary Kay Cosmetics said this, “We fail forward to success.” I am thankful for the challenges life brings because I have learned that my best lessons have come from such times as those. Thank you for sharing and God bless you and give you grace to deal with your challenges that you may learn and overcome.
‘This too shall pass”, good to say but often harder than not to see past and believe so thank yourself Tim (and all of those alike on this post) for pushing through. I am 33 and have lived through many hardships most people just wouldn’t believe or understand. This too shall pass was often said in my mind but not felt in my heart. My motto…”You can use things to help you or hurt you”. Negative experiences can help one recognize the more positive opportunity that they want instead of this negative experience dealt to them. Congrats on refocusing your direction and opening new doors to a more positive love and/or experience so that this too shall pass:)
Thanks for your tribute: As for the invite to tell of someone you are thankful for, I am thankful for so many, especially my family, of course my Saviour, and my oldest daughter really stands out because she is here and still strong in faith and spirit after a long and ongoing battle with celiac and Lyme disease. My entire household has been very supportive which has been difficult for them as well, as my older kiddos have been so supportive with the family shake-ups that have come with multiple adoptions and other issues big and small. I am thankful to so many friends and supporters of our adoption processes and family and for our newest venture as missionary liasons to southeast Siberia and our ministry partners. I am thankful for our youngest son who will celebrate his first birthday and Christmas here in December.
Tim,
Thanks for sharing a deep part of yourself. You opened my mind to the fact I am part of a culture of entrepreneurs that actually have concern for others. I appreciate your honesty. I have had many painful experiences but they all do pass and something better comes. Thanks for all you do for us as well.
Rick
Hi Tim
Thanks for sharing that touching story. I can relate, my family has always been there for me, too. You’re right, the past is the past, and there is a brighter future that awaits each of us.
Hi Tim. Love you too! Thanks for sharing your heart. We cannot control what others do or why they do it, but we can control what we do with it.
Yes, forgiveness frees the soul and opens our life to new and empowering possibilities.
Thanks for your post,
Margo
Right on Timmy! I couldn’t agree more bud…
Letting go of the guilt, allowing forgiveness… it’s the only way you can ever more forward and get rid of all the negative, draining, plaguing feelings that will hold us back forever.
Thanks for sharing your heart this Thanksgiving… by the look of all the comments on here, you’re certainly making a difference bro!
Brian
Thank you for sharing your story with us..i can understand how hard for you to write down your experienced and shared with us..But is worth for it…Again i’d like to say Thank you..
Thanks for sharing your story, I love you too. Forgiveness is the key to Love and Love is the reason for our existence.
Thanks Tim for reaching our and sharing your story. A few weeks ago I lost my oldest brother. It still seems as if it’s not true. One motto I live by is that life is very precious and not a moment should be taken for granted. I love you too and hope you had an awesome Thanksgiving. Take care, Glenda Coker
Thanks for sharing. It’s good to get emails every now and then that aren’t always about business & show that the people writing them are real. Jesus is the reason for the season. Hope you have an enjoyable one.
Hi Tim,
Thank you so much for sharing your personal experience. honestywith Life doesn’t just happen it happen for a reason. I would say she is not the right one for you. And good for you just move to your next chapter of life. We learn from our mistakes and you are very right Family and Friends are always there for us unfortunately no matter what circumstances at the end the story we are the one who will make a decision wether we forget and forgive right.? For Being a Christian I learned to meditate Gods words the Bible and a very strong and powerful encouragement especially when the word of God penetrate your inner soul he daid that ” He will never leave you nor forsake you” everybody leaving us eventually but God never lie and His words is real and true and it helps me to get through by and i lean more on God than to my family and friends I am the type of person I don’t share my problems to
anybody except I did share to God first and then to a trusted family or friends only.
But in saying that we are originated and we are unique created by God different ability, different talent and most of all God gave us the wisdom how to handle complicts in our life but above all He is the source of everything. I thank you for your time and efforts to share with us Grace and Mercy abound you and family forever. Remain blessed Al
Dear Tim,
Thank you for the beautiful “love letter”.
You totally hit me bullseye! I am still in the process of “trying to forgive” my ex-husband who happened to be father of my two kids.
It’s been 6 years since we separated yet still, I admit the pain is there. And hate strucks me when I feel pity for my kids growing up without me, missing me (and I’m missing them so much!), because I have to work abroad.
All these years, I still cry some nights. I know that there’ll only be just set time for mourning. However, no matter how I try my best to enjoy the rest of everything going on in life, deep in me is pain and hatred.
That’s the ugliest part of me.
Yet the love I have for my kids, is everything that makes it all bearable.
God bless people like you who reaches out to random individuals, never knowing that you touches hearts more than you ever intended to.
Life sucks and then you die. Three weeks ago I lost my wife. Been married 37 years. Life is so temporary. Time to make the most of it
Tim,
Thank you for this seed of love and forgiveness. When we are hurt, angry, frustrated and going thru, we unintentionally hurt those closest to us and around us with our words and actions. Because those who love us really, really know us, they love us thru our hurt and our anger.
I am thankful for my mother, true friends, and people like you who God has allowed our paths to cross. I am thankful for the seeds of sharing, of love, of tolerance to overcome, and of forgiveness that I have sown into the lives of those I encounter and that have been sown into my life.
I am thankful for grandmothers, grandfathers, aunts, uncles, cousins, sisters, brothers, and friends who shared wisdom like “This Too Shall Pass”, “Hold On…Trouble Don’t Last Always”, “What Don’t Kill You Will Make You Stronger”, “God Doesn’t Put More On You Than You Can Bare”, and many others. These were the seeds they spoke and planted into us. These were the seeds that grew during our recovery time and were harvested at the appropriate time.
Tim, your experience is not for you but for someone you will meet in the near future. They will need your strength to get thru their ordeal and you, my friend, will be there for them fully loaded with words of wisdom and comfort to get them thru.
May the Lord bless and keep you.
T, I’m proud of you, Love you and you make the world a better place.
Dad