An Open Letter to John

92 comments
John Milan sitting in a chair looking at a table of art supplies

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.

John sitting at a table with his three young girls

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.

John turns and smiles at the camera while painting a horse

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,


92 comments


  • Talitha

    God gave me a “knowing” some months ago about this. I really love your family and I know this must be hard.
    I pray God is near to you and you find strength and wisdom with Him. Keep pursuing His heart and plan for your life and in your art. You both have touched so many lives and will continue to as you keep on His loving path marked out for you.
    (Part one student), 💕 Talitha


  • Nikki O’Neil

    Oh my, I pray a great comfort and peace over this. The legacy the two of you have created goes beyond your family, you have reached the hearts of thousands. There are not words big enough to say thank you for the devotion and sacrifice you all have made to pour into others. You both are so loved by people you won’t ever meet. Thank you so much for what you have done. Thank you for your commitment to so many. Thank you for the art inside us all.
    Thank you,
    Nikki O’Neil
    Mastery Student for life


  • Maria Merigliano

    My hear breaks for both of you but I also know what we share to the world and what we are behind closed doors can be different. You both are special people together and even if apart.. sometimes the road shifts and the paths change. I wish you both love and the peace God can only give as you go through this tough time.. sending you hugs love and prayers


  • Cherri

    Dear John and Eli, my heart is sad to know such a beautiful couple has made this choice. No-one over knows what someone else is truly going through, I wish you both happiness and peace that surpasses understanding. Thank you for all that you give to the artist community. You both are a blessing to us all.
    Love
    Cherri
    Milan student


  • Annette Thiesen

    So sad to hear you are ending your marriage. I’m sure there are many things written between those lines that you can’t share. God calls us to love one another, forgive each other and walk in peace. My prayer is for wisdom and love to continue to flow freely between you and you won’t regret the decision to separate. 💝💝🙏🙏


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