I want to end my very difficult year by extending my gratitude.

I want to dedicate my last blog of the year to two people who have stood beside me like twin Rocks of Gibraltar. Ironic since one of them was born within sight of Gibraltar itself. It takes a special kind of courage to stand with someone in their darkest hour and not want to run from it.

I am so moved that each of you took the time out of your busy lives to counsel and console me. Thank you for digging into your deepest selves and finding patience and compassion for me over and over. Thank you for letting me lean on your strength. Thank you for letting me find peace in your company and in your arms. Thank you for knowing the simple tricks it takes to help me find my sense of humour again and again. Thank you for believing in me.

You have all my love, always.

For all of those people who lost patience with me, who ignored me, shunned me, forgot about me, and abused me; for all those who took the easy way out and extended lip service, arm-chair friendship....I forgive you. May you remember how to be kind. May you remember what's really important in life. May you find peace and happiness. May you remember in which dusty corner you left your patience and compassion and learn how to use them again. May your life never get so comfortable that you become complacent. May you remember it could be you next and who will stand in your corner?

My girlfriend, one of the two beloved above-mentioned Rocks, called me a few minutes ago and told me her first thought this morning upon wakening was that Linda is going to have a brilliant year in 2007.

hahahhaaa....I believe her. I have the strength. I have the desire. I have the will. A little bit of luck and I'll be good to go.

I was going to wish Good Fortune visit you, but I think I'd rather wish you all love instead. Most of us came into the world blessed by love. If we're lucky we will leave surrounded by love. But it's now when it counts.