Last but Certainly Not Least....Pat

I must confess that reading Pat's blog, Child Lost, has sustained me through a lot of what I've gone through with my Josh. P.J. clued me in to her blog. P.J. posted a prayer request for Pat's family on her blog, and I followed the link. Since that first day I read it, it has never ceased to inspire me. Child Lost is about her son, Josh's, struggle with drug addiction. If you ever get a chance, and you haven't stopped by her blog, I encourage you to do so. Here's my list of ten things I like about Pat:

1. You have weathered the ongoing storms in your life with unparalleled grace.
2. Your unwavering commitment to researching your family's heritage is admirable.
3. You aren't afraid to speak the truth, even if the truth isn't always pretty.
4. You aren't ashamed to admit your weaknesses.
5. You may have felt like quitting, but you've kept on blogging about your pain partly because you know it's a lifeline for others.
6. Some of what you've got through would have emotionally crippled other folks. You've endeavored to maintain your own mental health and strength through the biggest obstacles. I am reminded of your perseverance on the days I don't feel like getting out of bed at all.
7. Your faith is growing...you're still trying to find it...but it's sustaining you. It's right there, along with the love that's coming back to you that you've given day after day, year after year.
8. You give to us every day by giving us a glimpse into your heart, your humor, your hurt and your heritage.
9. You are a darn good "MomMom" to your two (and a half) grandchildren....and a Mom who's willing to open your home when it would be easier to turn away.
10. You have taken the biggest risk of all....to love again when your heart is still healing....a risk that I know will be richly rewarded in the long run.