You never know why it is that people come into your life. Sometimes it takes years, to see what pattern the threads weave into. Many years ago, I’d walk my little girl to school, get her situated in her first grade classroom. Once, upon leaving, I was asked by another teacher if I had a minute to come in and help out with her kids, all special-needs. Could I maybe do a few math problems with them just until the morning bell rang? I was a stay-at-home mom. The dishes in the sink could wait. So I said, “Sure.”

Nearly 10 years later, I ran into that teacher in the Marshall’s parking lot. “How are you,” she asked? I’d just started my massage practice and so I told her about it and she asked for a business card. Now, how many people actually hang on to a business card? But she did. And she shared it with her ex-daughter-in-law who called me and became a regular client.

A year ago life got complicated for both me and my client.  She found a new husband and was kick-starting her new life. I was walking away from my marriage of 25 years and settling in, living solo, plus visitation, in an apartment miles away from the neighborhood.

Over Christmas she texted, “Can I come in for a massage? Today?” I was in no shape emotionally to see a client, even a good one. Besides, I was feeling a bit shy about having her come to the apartment vs. my beautiful studio in the old house. I said no.

This week, she texted again. “Can I come in for a massage? This week?” It’s been a minute. I’m more grounded. I’m more confident. I’m growing more comfortable with sharing my vulnerabilities. I said yes.

Had I not been married to a wonderful provider, disconnected emotionally has we may have been, I’d not been a stay-at-home mom. I’d not been able to walk my daughter into first grade. I’d not met the kind teacher across the hall. I’d not met my client.

After her massage today, we chatted a bit about where our lives are and the amazing pathways that have gotten us here. She asked if we could pray together. I said yes.

She took my hands into hers and she asked the heavenly father (her image, but I’m being open…I don’t quite know what my Higher Power looks like, though I doubt he’s a dude) for strength and guidance and love for me as I walk this journey into the unknown. As I learn to love myself and to accept what is possible. As I begin to believe that I am favored and I am blessed.

It’s not easy. But I’m willing to try. Each day I listen for the strength simply to put one foot in front of the other. Each day it’s as hard as it was the day before. But on those hard, hard days, I might just meet someone who will offer a thread, become part of my tapestry. And along the way, I will know myself. She is good. She is kind. She is important.

[Blog title used without permission by Dar Williams. Though I think she won’t mind].