An Open Letter to John

Dear John,
I wanted to share how grateful I am for you and your life and all that you bring. I could always count on you to be on my side and encourage me to keep going. You were always willing to do the difficult things in hard times and help your family with whatever they needed. You have never complained or felt too big to do the small things no one else wanted to do. Your humility and support show your kind and loving heart.
I’m grateful for our years in marriage together full of beautiful memories and fulfilling adventures. Although it might not have been your first choice, you were always willing to go with me to the ends of the earth. You made me laugh when I wanted to cry and cheered me up whenever I felt down.
You were devoted to your children every single day, lovingly caring for them, and always showing up 100%. You cuddled them, played with them, and were everyone’s favorite dad on the street. I appreciate your dedication and unwavering active love you brought as a parent.

Our years of collaborating in art have meant the world to me, and I am grateful for the deep, profound, quiet moments of discovery and breakthrough we experienced together. You are an incredible artist, and your lovely soul shines through in every brushstroke or elegant line you create.
I’m thankful for the years we excelled as artists together and were able to see what we created go all over the world. I believe what we had was rare and precious and will always stand out as a profound chapter in my life, of healing and transformation.

As this chapter together closes and we move forward into the unknown apart, my heart is full of gratitude and also great anticipation of new levels of fulfillment and purpose for each of us. Although our marriage is ending, you will always be family to me, and as your friend and huge supporter and cheerleader, I will delight in watching you thrive and grow and become your very best self, becoming all that God intended for you.
I know that your greatest works of art are still in front of you, and your best days are just ahead. You are a kind and loving soul, and so many find comfort and acceptance in your presence. Thank you for who you are and all that you shared with me.
Love you,
Elli
It was sad to hear that you and John are ending your marriage, but not entirely surprising. Even though I do not know you personally, I have felt that something was not right.
You have written a beautiful letter to John, and I hope that you remain friends. Thank you for sharing.
Wishing the whole family all the best!
Best regards, Esther (one of your students)
A beautiful heart felt letter. I wish you both a future of love, creativity and exploration of what is yet to be discovered for each of you.
A heartfelt note.
Dear Elli Milan,
Once again, I am deeply moved by your courage, your vulnerability, and your honest heart. I know, in my own way, the depth of what you are going through, and I see how brave you are.
I am truly sorry for your loss. Even when there has been time for reflection, decision, and mental preparation, it never comes without pain. There is always an emotional journey that must heal somehow, somewhere, in its own time.
Hearing you speak from your heart gave me a blueprint and brought tears to my eyes for what may be coming next in my own life. These are times of change, and they ask us to be brave.
I feel I am standing in very similar shoes, though I have not yet found the courage to make that move. But I know I can no longer extinguish my own light just to fit into a life—or a shoe—that no longer fits.
Thank you for your honesty, your strength, and your light. Your words reached me more deeply than you may know.
With love and light,
Debora
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Elli Milan Art replied:
Oh Debra my heart goes out to you! It’s difficult but yes stepping forward with courage will take you across. All the best.
Oh Elli I truly am touched by this in so many ways! I just recently walked out of a nine year relationship that I finally realized had been stagnant for years and offered a great deal of stress, worry, financial burden and resistance in my life and my personal journey. I am crushed! I also had to leave my fur baby behind as no pets are allowed here at my location now in Sarasota. I feel like I’m in mourning or recovering from a serious traumatic event. It’s so confusing to feel alive again yet so overcome with sadness and emptiness. I will be honest in saying that as a Mastery Program student on pause while working through my own recovery, I am also saddened by this news of your marriage. I haven’t gotten the chance to meet all of you yet before receiving such news. I pray that God’s love and light will always shine upon you, John, and your beautiful family.
Sad to hear you are moving on separately. But I do know you both have had a good long ride together. I think I can relate in many similar ways, life after 50 brings many new challenges and I often feel pulled other directions. Big Hugs and much love.
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Elli Milan Art replied:
Thank you. 🥰
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