My 40s were defined by storms I never saw coming. It wasn't the life I pictured, but it was the path God set before me. Through it all, my dog Mia was my constant. She stayed with me while I cried, filling the void when I felt I had no one. Even when I closed my heart to God, He spoke through her presence. Mia was the gift I needed when others let me down. Today, that experience allows me to stand in the gap for others. Being present for others is not a job, it is a blessing!