That is a phrase I have used often to remember the family Cottage. A place of comfort and refuge for myself in times of uncertainty or confusion. I need to remember the Cottage for what it gave me and still does in my memories.

With this 20th anniversary of Bernie’s death almost done, I need to Always Remember and Never Forget her. Always remember what she gave me… three wonderful and amazing children, love and support, Recovery, even!! Never Forget all that she gave up… her own Recovery and the people who made it (make it!!) so great, those three beautiful kids and myself, and, yes, that very same love and support of all who knew her.

I went to a meeting tonight. It must be more than 15 years since I’ve gone to this particular meeting. I went there solely to see one person. Someone who knew me so very long ago, someone who also knew Bernie. I went there to make sure that I was in the right place, to make sure that I was doing the right thing in my recovery today, to find hope!

I found that person. I talked to her and shared about why I was there on this rainy Monday. She had something going on in her life that my words touched and she cried a bit. I felt some fear, like, “OMG!! What have I done??!!” But, it wasn’t me. It was just life. I did what I needed to do. The consequence of my action was an opening of mind and spirit, for me and for her. I found my Hope.

This tremendous woman gave me hope and courage that I am truly doing all that is right for me today, just by her being there tonight. As well, by giving of herself to my dilemma and helping me to Remember why I am here. I am forever grateful for that. I picked up a white keytag tonight in honor of Bernie’s memory and help me to Never Forget.

I also talked to my son on the phone just before I went off to that meeting. We talked about life in general, about suicide, about why we are still here today. We remembered together what it is to be alive, and to Never Forget those who helped us to be who we are. My daughter posted a simple message of  “I love you! ” on my FB wall, which in those three words offered me even greater hope for my Recovery than all that I was given at the meeting tonight.

Aye, this too shall pass. In its own time, in its own way. Recovery has proven itself to me once more. Do what needs doing ad let the rest be. My Gratitude List has expanded from that single item of “I am CLEAN!!” (not sober… hehe), to add on Hope, Courage, and Faith. oh yeah, and Gratitude, too…

Keep The Faith*