February 26, 2025 marked 12 weeks since I had brain surgery. It was officially called neurovascular decompression surgery, lasted about 90 minutes, and stopped 100% of the hemi-facial spasms I had been dealing with for the prior 7 years on the right side of my face.

To say that procedure was life changing is an understatement. Every possible mental, emotional, and physical aspect of my life changed….like a fork in the road of life. Spiritually, this whole experience grew my faith and deepened my relationship.

I’ve never been one to openly share the challenging times in life online. I always thought….nobody really cares that much. People are going through their own challenges or situations. I certainly don’t want to burden anyone or bring anybody down. Just keep it positive and high level. Share the highlight reel of life and the accomplishments…you know, the make you feel good stuff. I’m pretty sure this philosophy had to do with all that positive mindset training I did in my early 20s.

But, here’s what shifted since brain surgery…

1. Life isn’t always sunshine and roses or unicorns and rainbows….in fact, if you’re blessed enough to live long enough, the rain clouds and thunderstorms are bound to show up….just knowing this is preparation enough for when the seasons shift. The grey days always end and the sunshine does come back out…you just have to wait it out and never give up. You learn to love the simple pleasures of life a whole lot more. Random charcuterie board game nights, watching your kids commit to the daily grind of skill improvement to make their dream come true, and tea parties in the middle of the day sure do help!

2. It’s how you walk through the trials and triumphs that life throws you that build character and compassion. Real compasssion for others is learned from experience. When you’ve had such experiences, leaning back to help someone else move forward becomes a way of life.

3. Sharing our stories connects us and when things get tough it’s great to know you’re not alone. Sharing gives other people hope when they may feel down and are looking to have their spirit lifted. Many times over the months leading up to surgery and since, it’s scrolling thru social media that I’d peer into someone else’s world and feel just a little bit better.

4. Never believe the hundreds of lies by an enemy who wants to steal your peace and joy. Someone is always going through something worse than you and someone is always going through something better. Life isn’t about comparison…it’s about compassion and understanding and a whole lotta love. Believe in what never changes – love for one another.

5. We only get one walk through this thing called life. Make sure you’re living in alignment with a holy purpose, one that transcends awards/accolades/and achievements. Those things are great but the soul fill is only momentary there. To experience soul-satisfying peace and joy, you simply must be operating from a much bigger, soul-fulfilling place.

I’m certain this sharing is just the beginning of the return to where I was called since my early years of writing and giving. Until next time…Girl, Fill Your Cup!

Xoxo….Erin