do projects ever make you feel...grateful?

As I research information for a blog post for one of my clients, I realize I've got it pretty darn good. All my basic necessities are taken care of. I have a roof over my head. I have food on the table. I have a great husband and two awesome kids. Our home environment is safe. We love and respect each other. Sure, we get frustrated, irritated, and angry sometimes, but we find a healthy way to resolve our differences.

I've been learning about National Domestic Violence Awareness Month (observed in October) and the more I read, the more grateful I feel for my life. Some folks aren't so lucky. Some are involved in hurtful, abusive relationships and they--and their children--are suffering. It's a sad and potentially disastrous situation. And it needs to stop.

If you know of someone who needs help because of physical or verbal abuse, let them know that you are there to offer support. Here are a few resources to pass along:

Child Abuse Hotline
800.25.ABUSE
217.524.2606

Illinois Department of Children and Family Services

National Coalition Against Domestic Violence

Family and Community Resource Center

Put yourself out there to help someone else. You'll be glad you did.