Today I celebrate twice — my birthday and Christmas — free from stress, free from fear, and free from abuse for the second year since I chose myself.

There is a quiet joy in peace. A deep, steady gratitude in waking up without walking on eggshells. I can spend my money as I choose, give generously as I choose, and spoil my granddaughter and grandson with love, laughter, and little moments that matter — without permission, without guilt, without being dictated to.

This is what life is for.

Not control. Not endurance. Not shrinking to keep others comfortable.
Life is for living, for creating memories, for being present with those we love while we still can.

I choose joy. I choose freedom. I choose to invest my time, my energy, and my heart in what truly matters — because grandchildren grow fast, time is precious, and peace is priceless.

This chapter is mine, and I intend to live it fully.

— Linda Carol