Thought for the day…I slept last night, all the way through, I even went to bed at a decent time! I was worn out, but the biggest trick to my wonderful night of rest? I feel healthier and at peace…A few months ago I had something very unsettling happen, I had allegations and “concerns” made. Nothing involving the children…nothing that could have actually harmed anyone, but I was thrown into the turmoil and uncertainty that this sort of thing brings. With it came confusion, anger, frustration…and a complex mix other other emotions that I struggled with and then my sleep paid the price. My sleeping less also made it harder to parent, harder to remain “PACE”. I still did it, but it was a struggle. The worst part in all of it is I felt alone. What made the difference? Why can I now sleep even though it is not over? I am not alone…I received support through the NATP. Information and direction in where to go for help. I found out that there are rules and regulations that are there to protect me and that it was ok for me to use them. I found out that this has happened to a LOT of people, I was not alone. I reached out for help and got it. Reaching out wasn’t easy, I felt silly for not being able to handle it. I felt that maybe I brought it on myself and so also felt ashamed. Turns out that it doesn’t take much to turn a Foster Parents world upside down…It was even something I wanted to hide from all of you, I didn’t want you thinking less of me, but with gaining help, not feeling alone and learning my rights I have also found strength and peace. I am no longer scared because as much as I felt alone before, I am not….I am surrounded by people that actually care and want to help. This is why I come on here, this is why I go out and train people in Therapeutic Parenting…I want them to no longer feel alone and I want to empower them to keep going. Loneliness is a terrible feeling…something none of us need to feel. We are here on Facebook, in listening circles, in training, on the support line…find the help and ask for the help you need. Take the time to reach out and remember that you are not alone. We all feel that way sometimes…I felt that way…but now I have peace…that would not have happened if I didn’t reach out and ask for help. So…ask…reach out and feel less alone.