I have often contemplated the decisions I've made in my life and come to realize there's no point in living with regret. I know that's easier said than done. To doubt one's self, to question a situation in hindsight, to rehash a point in time and dream up different scenarios does keep the mind active but why are we spending our thoughtful energies on negative things?

Who needs that kind of garbage in their life?

^{Photograph and quote by Meredith Loughran}

There are several people whom I admire on Steemit, and for various reasons, but there is one woman in particular who captures my attention. I have been an inconsistent follower but when I do touch base with her, I am moved by the depth of her shared offerings: art, poetry, philanthropy...and she shares her pain.

I admire anyone who gives so freely of herself. She's raw, eloquent, and beautiful on the inside and out.

Who is this amazing woman?

@girlbeforemirror

^{Photo from her blog}

To read about her story, you must see this through the eyes of someone who loves her most, her husband @azurejasper

He wrote, "Sharing isn't easy for me..."

He spoke of the charity work she did for survivors of childhood sexual assault through an Australian-based charity called Bravehearts. She ran seven ultra marathons in seven days to raise funds and awareness, but it's not just about the achievement - you really must read about her journey.

Here's her post.
^{NOTE: it's a long read but well worth it!}

Unfortunately, health problems and pain began during this event, blowing out both knees and torn tissue around her spine, probably exacerbated a very serious and rare condition. After much time in the hospital she was diagnosed with a rare connective tissue disorder.

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#payitforward

I am donating all liquid funds from this post to @girlbeforemirror and I am calling out to this wonderful community to show your wonderful support.

Here are some options on how you can participate

• Visit posts from @girlbeforemirror and her husband, @azurejasper and give them generous upvotes on their posts and comments.
• Direct donation to them.
• Resteem their content so they can have greater exposure.
• Share their story on your social media.
• Leave thoughtful comments and let them know you're thinking about | praying | sending positive thoughts for them.

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People who directly donated to @girlbeforemirror are:

@redeemed | @clayboyn | @silviabeneforti | @littlenewthings | @shortcut | @zooropa | @snooway | @surpassinggoogle | @murda-ra | @paradise-found | @kaylinart |

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And my sincere wish...

More than anything dear, @girlbeforemirror - I humbly pray for the recovery of your health; that you remain strong in spirit, and can be home with your family where you belong.

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#payitforward updates

• @thecrazygm was just readmitted into the hospital again. Michael could also use your support in any way possible.
• #hamburgersaintproject is operated by @lexikon082 and operated through the @hamburger-saint account - a project that is a legacy of love, giving and humor in memory of Sgt. Michael Barkey. I will be drawing names of two people to receive a gift from me. It's not too late to be included on that list!
• Steemfest travel fund is getting a boost from @paolobeneforti's art auction. Check out the art that has been donated by Steemians so far! Let's get as many people to Steemfest² as possible!

To all of your reading

Thank you.