Warrior

Many of you have asked how I have been able to be so present the past few weeks.

I think it’s a combination of things.

One is time.

The past two years my priority has been Clayton and the kids.

We’ve spent thousands of hours in hospitals and at doctors appointments.

Clayton was an extremely private person so I respected his wishes to not share what our daily life actually looked like.

I would do just about anything to be at a hospital right now but with Clayton’s passing, my calendar has opened up and I have more freedom to spend here.

The second is my faith.

God has been preparing me for a long time. I have an unshakable faith and have tried my best to align my will with His over the past few months.

Our trials have led me to have a clear understanding that God is faithful. I’ve never felt closer to the Savior and his sacrifice and love for me.

And last but not least is this handsome guy.

I never got to share his story because he was too humble to let me.

But Clayton was a warrior.

His fight to stay with us was nothing short of inspiring.

His focus was so clear on healing we never once talked about his death.

I’ve watched him beat unexplainable odds, I stood by him as he suffered unimaginable pain and watched him only say thank you with love and gratitude.

Through it all he always had a smile.

Each day I wake up and feel surrounded by his warrior spirit. I am filled with gratefulness and joy.

This is why I am here and why I keep showing up.

I love being here with you and want to celebrate as often as possible.

If you are facing any trial right now, try to seek out joy and find even the tiniest win to celebrate.

You are worth celebrating. I’m cheering for you.

Thoughtfully, Chelsey Arnal