How have I been enriched by giving?

DeVonna, what a compassionate gift to the memory of your mother that heals on so many levels. Wow! Just reading about your generosity inspires me to forgive and move on past the shortcomings of my own upbringing and to be grateful for surviving the effects of trauma brought on by alcoholism, poverty, emotional abuse, violence and other emotional baggage. When sharing at an AA meeting an old timer came up to me and asked me if I forgave my grandfather for the abuse my grandmother and her children suffered under his influence. When I said yes he said, good because that was me and now we can be friends. I thought that was odd and now I understand having read your story. As a child of an adult child of an alcoholic I had my issues and forgiveness has not come easy. I also suffered substance abuse and all that comes with that. Mental issues as well. It all comes with the territory. I’m doing well now but had many grieves to bare. I’m still dealing with the aftermath of the consequences of my own experiences. In reading what you did for your mother and how you grew up it gives me hope that more healing is to come and love moves beyond the grave. I truly believe that. Thank you for sharing. I almost deleted this reply but I think it is good to relate and let go so I too can move on.