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
Sometimes the path that brings two people together is just a path and not a destination.
As a student in your program I’ve watched you pour your heart into your work and teaching. Your insights and the way you share it so generously has meant more than you know. I have no doubt you’ll bring that same strength and clarity to this next season of life. Wishing you well.Dear Elli,
It is a challenge to step into destiny when in your early years everything was a future of love, connection, growth and all possibilities. I don’t know you personally so I don’t know if you are happy, sad or bittersweet. Since the beginner program, I had it on my heart to pray for your happiness,well being and success. I noticed a change with your energy recently . You look so happy and have an incredible energy about you. And, I am sure many pray for you! What a wonderful chance to take a new path on your journey. I am proud of you for sharing this news. I am sure your story will help others. Many Blessings! Love, Cathy
———
Elli Milan Art replied:
Thank you Cathy! Thank you for praying what you are sensing I feel is very accurate.
I am sad that both of you must part. But hav so enjoyed all of The Outstanding artist shows with all the family. I hope it goes well for you and your whole family
Take care of yourself.
Dear Eli,
I know you don’t know me at all but I feel like I know you and your family from watching TOA and I just started the Mastery Program this April. My heart is heavy since I read about your post about you and John splitting. I am grieving! You both share a beautiful story together, raised beautiful, successful, amazing children and built a successful business helping so many artists fulfill their dreams including mine. We may never know exactly why you both decided to split up, my hope and prayer for both of you is that you both find peace and comfort from our loving God. Thank you for being instrumental to fulfilling my dream as an artist and I hope and pray that God would continue to guide you both in the next chapter of your life. Much love and respect to you both. 😘🙏 Shirley Oliver
I’m grieving for you… From the moment I first read your blog yesterday morning, my heart has been heavy. You don’t know me, but we artists know you! You’ve opened your heart, your life, and your home to us. You’ve taught us to discover the creative genius deep inside us, how to connect with our right brain, how to truly see and feel the world around us. You have been a tremendous influence and inspiration on our journey of self discovery. We feel like family!
That explains why I feel heavy and I have contemplated all day and night on your divorce. I even dreamt about it. 🥴 I grieve over the death of a marriage, a covenant, a partnership. My heart is heavy for you, John and the family.
My prayer is for quick healing of hearts and lives re-established in harmony. Divorce can be ugly when hurt hearts lash out. Praying yours will not be so.
Maybe in the future you will feel free to share more of your journey. For now, know we are all sharing the moment with you!
Leave a comment