blood moon photo via space.com
“Blood moon is rising tonight!”
The text came across my phone from a close friend last Monday afternoon.
“That doesn’t sound good,” I replied.
She went on to explain that the blood moon doesn’t happen often and especially not during Holy week. The last time it happened at this time was during the week leading up to the crucifixion of Jesus.
“Wow. And I just filed my divorce forms. What do you think that means?!”
I was at the courthouse just an hour before I received the text. A series of events out of my control had suddenly set me on the fast track to divorce. It was on the day of the blood moon that I made it official.
After the series of texts, I did some research on the blood moon. The blood moon occurs when the Earth spins between the sun and the moon. A red sheen is cast upon the moon when the shadow of the Earth catches the refracted sunlight during this lunar eclipse.
Some say there is a divine connection to the occurrence of the blood moon. The first of a series of four blood moons, known as tetrad, happened on April 15. Tax day. A day when my family is typically celebrating our reunification with my CPA husband.
Some say the blood moon means that “world-shaking events” will take place and start to fulfill the End Times prophecy. While several other tetrad blood moons have occurred in the past, this particular one falls on significant dates for Jewish people.
People react to the idea of impending doom in different ways. Some run from the situation, while others attempt to face it head on. Some predict the end of the world, while others appreciate the rare opportunity. Some say they are sorry, while others congratulate.
“Well, there must be a correlation between the two. An ending to the pain and unhappiness, and the beginning of something really great that’s about to happen in your life!”
Was I completely blind-sided by the situation I find myself in? Not really. There aren’t a whole lot of surprises left after spending nearly 20 years of your life – more than half my life – with the same person. But it takes two people and a mutual understanding of what constitutes love and commitment to make a marriage work for the long haul.
For every extreme down, there has been an extreme up. I am achieving major life goals. Coincidently – or maybe not so coincidently – I have done a great amount of research on gratitude and happiness this past year and have worked on finding what a meaningful life translates for me.
It’s scary as hell, but I’m smart enough to know that while my world is shaking a bit, it is not actually ending. The next blood moon in the tetrad will happen on the 20th anniversary of the first date with my husband. I could assume impending doom, but instead I choose it as a sign of something new and amazing to come.
A new life is just beginning. One in which I can put myself first. Where I can continue to focus on raising my beautiful boys and keep sauntering on my path to ultimate happiness.
I just might get a glimpse of the striking blood moon itself along the way.
image via Trending Mom
Read more about the blood moon: Does the Bible predict the ‘Blood Moon’?
No, your world is not ending – or maybe the world you knew is. But I know that you are on a path for something amazing. You are strong and smart and savvy and dignified beyond measure. I love you and I’m banking on the prediction that your life will look more different than you could ever imagine in a year from now. In all of the best ways possible. Hugs. xo
Ilene recently posted..Maybe This Could Be Big
Thank you for everything, Ilene. I couldn’t go through this without you! Love you too!
anotherjennifer recently posted..Wordless Wednesday: Not Really the Intention
I agree with Ilene, essentially your world as you knew it may be ending a certain chapter in it, but your world itself is not ending and only just beginning. Definitely an odd coincidence of sorts, but I do think you will pick yourself up and become even stronger from all of these recent events. Hugs to you Jennifer and totally thinking of you.
Janine Huldie recently posted..A Day In The Life – Writing Is A Process To Me…
Thanks so much, Janine. I appreciate your support.
anotherjennifer recently posted..Philanthropy Friday (rewind): 1,000 Mitzvahs
The world is not ending – but certainly parts of it. I always do believe that endings are beginnings, and sometimes really fantastic ones.
I actually found out about two divorces in the last week. Three, I suppose. And it didn’t help that I was having my own arguments with Cassidy, but those weren’t chronic.
Sometimes I get frustrated to have so many great blogging friends and not being able to be in their lives and know when things are up and how I can help. On the other hand with the two divorces I know from in person friends? Didn’t see them coming at all either.
Thinking of you! Thinking great things of and for you.
Tamara recently posted..I Got A Room At The Top Of The World Tonight.
Thanks, Tamara. If you told me I’d be where I am now a few months ago, I probably wouldn’t believe you. But things happen. I think there are reasons for everything.
anotherjennifer recently posted..Wordless Wednesday: Bunny Cage
Well after reading this all it tells me is we are long overdue for a get together. Let’s do it soon.
Agreed, Kathleen. I sent you an email yesterday. Let’s do lunch soon!
anotherjennifer recently posted..Upcoming Classes in Freeport, Worcester and Online!
Jennifer, I just want to echo what Tamera said…you’ve been a great blogging friend and I wish we knew each other in real life! I’ll be thinking about you as you enter this new phase of your life.
Ginny Marie recently posted..Your Spin Cycle Prompt {week of 4/21}
Thanks, Ginny Marie. I hope we get to meet at some point in person. Love all my fellow MOAM authors!
anotherjennifer recently posted..Philanthropy Friday: Somebody’s Daughter
You used that quote?? I am so sorry, but even though my heart hurts for you, I am laughing out loud right now. I wish more than anything things were different, but then again, I’m so excited for what your future holds as you take on all of these opportunities. Sometimes people get in our way. The coincidences of dates are odd…
You are my best bloggy friend and I love you and am here for you all the way! xoxo
Alexa recently posted..Earth Day 2014 – Five Signs You Might Be a Tree Hugger
So funny that I didn’t even realize the significance of that quote. I didn’t do it on purpose! But it is funny. 🙂 Thanks to you for everything. Love you! Not sure what I’d do without you these days.
anotherjennifer recently posted..Wordless Wednesday: Mom’s Helper
From what I’ve learned about you and from you these past two years, you will come out on top. You know you have a whole virtual and in person community here with you.
Alysia recently posted..Schedule Photos to Post Automatically with Postbot
Thank you, Alysia. I know I will too. It’s rough now, but I’ve got some great things on the horizon as well. My community is amazing!
anotherjennifer recently posted..Join Me to #FightToxins
Your outlook is so incredibly inspiring. I wholeheartedly believe that the closing of one door is a sign that another one is about to open, and it sounds like that is already happening for you. I know I just recently “met” you – and only virtually – but I already know you are an amazing, strong, inspiring woman. There are great things ahead, no doubt!
Katie @ Pick Any Two recently posted..Things New Moms Are Supposed to Just Know…That I Didn’t!
Thank you, Katie. I think we have a lot in common. It’s been great getting to “know” you via the blogging world. I hope we get to meet up some time!
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Oh Jennifer, I am sorry. But your outlook as Katie says, is amazing. Even though I’ve never met you, I feel like you are one of the strongest and most level headed people I know. I know you’ve got great things ahead of you.
Michelle @ A Dish of Daily Life recently posted..Tasty Tuesdays 57 plus Features
Thanks, Michelle. I appreciate your kinds words. Hopefully we’ll get to meet somewhere in New England this summer. Would love that.
anotherjennifer recently posted..Wordless Wednesday: Cheer Up
Thinking of you and your family during this life-changing time. As all of your amazing bloggy friends have already commented, you are handling this with grace, composure, and a focus on what really matters. Happiness for you & your boys. Virtual hugs and lots of positive vibes coming your way!
Nicole @ Work in Sweats Mama recently posted..Announcing the OOFOS Winner and Boston Strong
Thanks for those positive vibes, Nicole. I appreciate it!
You are a courageous, strong, intelligent woman! You have already risen and will travel past these challenges with strength and poise. I wish you all the happiness in the world and endless success in all that you do. Hugs from up the road. 🙂
Crystal recently posted..Bloggers: The Trick to Syndicating Without Hurting SEO
Thanks, Crystal. We need to meet up soon. Maybe somewhere in the middle? Hugs right back to you!
My heart sank reading your words … that you find yourself in a place all too familiar.
FL awaits any time you wish, just say when.
Love always xxx
sisters from another mister recently posted..Soft is the heart of a child
Thank you, Nicole. Would love to sit with you in Florida and drink a big glass of wine. Our situations are all too similar. Been thinking of you! xo
Your positive outlook will certainly serve you well in the coming weeks,months, and years. I’m sorry that this is the place in which you find yourself, but I hope that you will find comfort from all your friends and loved ones.
Rabia @TheLiebers recently posted..#TuesdayTen: My Favorite Candies
Thanks, Rabia. When I feel anger and pain, I remind myself of the happiness. There is much to be thankful for in my life. Focusing on negative doesn’t get you anywhere.
Your inner strength and resilience are shining through. Here’s hoping you have a network of friends, family and shoulders there for you as you transition to this new phase of being. Many of us are “out here” for you. Wishing you all the best on this journey, and like others have said, great things are on the horizon. The path ahead may be bumpy, you may find yourself on some crazy detours, but trust your inner compass…just as you’ve been doing. Peace and hugs.
I appreciate your words, Deb. I love the idea of trusting your inner compass. I will continue to do so. It has brought me to great places so far.
Jennifer, I am sorry to hear you are going through this, but I admire your positive outlook. I’m sure it will serve you well as you travel down this new path. I will be thinking of you. Wish we were all closer so we could give you a big MOAM support hug. For now, virtual hugs will have to do!
Lisa @ The GoldenSpoons recently posted..My Favorite Candy! {Tuesday Ten Linkup}
I can feel the MOAM love. Thanks, Lisa! I appreciate all the support I’ve been receiving.
Thinking of you a lot these days, my dear, and wishing I was closer to come and hang out with you and the boys. You’re an amazing woman and will get to the other side. I’ll be waiting — with a big-ass martini!
Looking forward to that big-ass martini, Caitlin. We can plan our next trip together over it!
Hi Jennifer
I’m sorry to hear the news but I know you are strong. You, Matt and the boys will be fine. If you need anything just give a call.
Thanks, Paula. We’ll get through this. If only I had a fast forward button! I appreciate your support.
Jennifer, I had to read several times because I thought you were talking about somebody else. I am so sorry, that you are going through this, but I am sure that you have your motivations.
Sending you positive thoughts and a big hug! It’s about time that we catch up!
I wish I were, Linda. But everything happens for a reason. I am very positive about the future. Good things are happening along with the bad. It’ll all work out. I know it will.
Sometimes I think it’s harder to get TO the decision than actually get thru it. Pretty interesting that it all lined up that way, though…
Kristen recently posted..The 5 (new) Worst People on Facebook
All the coincidences are really weird. I tend to think there’s meaning behind it. I’m going with something good!
I love you- And I am blessed for knowing you- honored for sharing this world with you- and grateful for watching someone as beautiful and bold and brilliant as you go forward into something so much bigger than you can ever dream or hope for.
Your courage is incredible.
Your strength inspiring.
Your integrity- amazing.
Girl- you are truly one of a kind.
To everything there is a season…
You’re time is NOW!
Onward soldier!
There is a big world out there waiting for you…
And a mighty plan ahead.
Get through this crap- and your new beginning awaits!!!
(Gosh, how I adore you so freaking much I just want to call you now, and cry and ramble about how I much love you and how proud I am of you and all you are enduring and YOU will be the victor in this…)
Chris Carter recently posted..The Best Easter Gift I Could Give My Kids- Bibles
Oh, Chris, you are just the best. You should have totally called! Love you. Love your words. And your friendship.
Jennifer, I don’t know you personally, and I just started following your blog, but I admire your vulnerability and openness in sharing this with us. I’ll am sending positive and loving thoughts for you and your family.
Gypsytoes recently posted..Día de la Tierra Feliz
Thank you. It’s nice to know I have some positive and loving thoughts coming from Nicaragua!
All the cliches people tell you, like when one door closes another one opens, drive me crazy. So what I will say is this: I have gotten to know you a little since we first met, and I know you will not be down for any count. You are a joy and a blessing to this world, and this is just your first act. Onto the next one. (But I am sorry you have to go through this.)
I rally around you, dear friend, and hope to see you in person this summer to give you a great, big hug.
Cathy
Cathy Chester recently posted..Wordless Wednesday: My Crazy Classic Collection
Thanks so much, Cathy. It has been such a pleasure getting to know you. Would love to get that hug this summer!
Oh wow. I saw the title of the post and I was hoping it wasn’t about you. That said, as big of a change as it is, it sounds like it is a positive step for you and I really admire your attitude. Hoping this change will lead to wonderful things for you!
Bev recently posted..Sometimes you want to go where everybody knows your name
Thank you, Bev. I think good things are ahead of me. It’s crazy now, but I’ll get there.
I’m sorry to read this post – I’m sure this isn’t easy for you or your family. I will say, I am teary reading the comments of love and support for you. Knowing you through your blog – I see character, compassion, kindness, gentleness and goodness. Reading my impressions echoed here by people who know you far better confirms to me that this is indeed the first step towards something amazing. Good people do win and you will triumph over this heartache. Best to you as you move forward.
Stephanie recently posted..Are You Feeling It?
The comments and the support are what’s getting me through this ordeal now. It’s amazing really. Thank you so much for your kind words, Stephanie.
anotherjennifer recently posted..Philanthropy Friday: World Fair Trade Day
I’m sorry that you’re dealing with this but all things come together as they should. Marriage is a tricky thing. It surprises you in good and bad ways. Both ways make us stronger. Sending thoughts for happiness during your new beginning.
Jenny recently posted..#AskAwayFriday With Tamara (Like) Camera!!!
Thank you, Jenny!
anotherjennifer recently posted..Wordless Wednesday: Not Really the Intention
Jennifer: I just read this post and am so sorry to hear that you are going through this! Your friends will support you and take care of your family. 🙂 You are an amazing woman! 🙂
Nicole Melancon recently posted..Rum Tasting in Havana
Thank you so much, Nicole. I have appreciated your friendship in this past year. We need to catch up very soon!
anotherjennifer recently posted..Philanthropy Friday: World Fair Trade Day
Hi Jennifer, there are so many unknowns as we move through our lives. I hope the best for your changing family as you all move forward. My thoughts are with you.
Thank you, Lindy. I appreciate your comment.
anotherjennifer recently posted..When Life Gets Overwhelming
I don’t know how I missed this post from April. How are you doing? I am firmly of believe in the quotation here. I usually don’t even think about the possibility in the moment, but with even the most devastating events in my life, I can look back and see how they have, in turn, lead to the best things in my life. Every. Single. One. I’ll be thinking of you, friend. –Lisa
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It’s been a rough week, Lisa. But I will get through this. Everything else in my life is wonderful. Thanks for your support!
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