“Mr. Right Does Not Have To Be Mr. Perfect.”

Terri Wingham is the founder and CEO of A Fresh Chapter, a cancer survivor, and someone who believes that we are not defined by the most difficult aspects of our story.

Written by Terri Wingham | November 1, 2011

The wind sliced at my face and I burrowed my nose a little lower into the wool of my scarf. My Sorrel winter boots scuffed the gravel road and sent sprays of snow through the air as I let her words sink in. “Terri, I hear what you’re saying, but you need to remember something important…Mr. Right does not have to be Mr. Perfect.”

The muscles between my shoulder blades must have tensed up. I’m sure I thought, what does she know? How dare she judge me because I haven’t settled down yet!

The details of what brought me home or how long I stayed for on that trip, now escape me, but I remember the snow, the cold, and the walk with my Mom. She must have asked about my most recent break-up and I must have given her a long list of reasons why it didn’t work out. I’m sure at the time, her words probably grated at the raw edges of my failed relationship wound, but now I see how transferable these words are. (more…)

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Comments (18)
  • Desiree • November 1, 2011

    The universe always delivers exactly what you need at this very moment. Beautiful post, Terri. Just what I needed to hear. Lots of love…

  • Terri Wingham • November 7, 2011

    Thanks Desiree. So nice to connect with you and I’m glad the message helped. Would love to connect when I’m back in Vancouver for a couple of weeks. Hope you’re doing well! T xo

  • AnneMarie • November 1, 2011

    I’m sorry. I laughed as I was reading the beginning of this entry. And I’m really sorry I laughed lots when you described the bitchy girl in the coffee shop. Driving in and around NYC=Not Fun. The insanity of NY does take a bit of time before it grows on you! Can’t wait to get your impressions of the public transportation system……I will see you later, alligator-Lucy’s at 8. xoxoxox

  • DebbieWWGN • November 2, 2011

    Terri:
    I assumed you were a seasoned city driver, given your plans for travelling around this crazy NYC/NJ area! You are so amazingly brave. I’m so sorry about the $45 ticket and the traffic, but glad we could share a bright spot in the day. It was a wonderful pleasure to meet you yesterday and well worth the drive. It’s not easy to go on a real adventure. There’s certainly going to be days that are much less than perfect. But you’re definitely on your way and I know, from reading you and now having the honor of meeting you, that you are going to create something amazing. I look forward to seeing it reveal itself!
    Hugs, Debbie

  • Terri Wingham • November 7, 2011

    Thank you Debbie! It was such a pleasure connecting with you too and I’m so glad to follow along with WWGN when I’m on the road and get inspiration and a dose of mindfulness along the way. T xo

  • David Clarke • November 2, 2011

    Hi Terri, great post, I am from London-and I have to say driving in NJ-at dusk in the rain-without driving glasses is right up there! ha ha .
    You are right, taking a chance, being vulnerable-but doing it anyway is the only way to really live.
    It hurts a lot when it doesn’t go your way, but without trying you are not living either!
    regards, David

  • Terri Wingham • November 7, 2011

    Thanks David – I so appreciate the support and that you can relate. I love your comment, “It hurts a lot when it doesn’t go your way, but without trying you are not living either.” Have a great week!

  • Katy (the beloved sister) • November 2, 2011

    Hi Ter,
    Thank you for this blog. I can’t help but be amazed at the timing of everything…last night I had a dream that Chris came to me and told me you’d called me crying from wherever you were (NY I guess). So in my dream, I knew I needed to find a way to comfort you.
    But in waking up, I realize that you’ve done that for me. I’m sorry you had such a rough day but thank you for putting a positive spin on it and reminding me (and others) that the road does get rough sometimes. I’ve been at the point of giving up – but reading about your bravery driving in New York (Gulp…I get scared of the prospect of even driving in Vancouver!)…helps put it all in to perspective.
    I love you – stay safe and thank you for holding on tight to your dreams – just in doing so, you’ve reminded me to keep fighting the good fight…to persevere.
    Hugs,
    Katy

  • Terri Wingham • November 7, 2011

    Love you so much. THanks for your comment and I’m so glad it helped put a positive spin on what’s going on in your life. I am safe in Toronto and can’t wait to connect soon. T xo.

  • Nancy Stordahl • November 2, 2011

    Perfection is so over-rated isn’t it?

  • Terri Wingham • November 4, 2011

    Absolutely Nancy! Thanks for coming by and for your comment. Hope you’re doing well. I am so behind in reading everyone’s blogs, but I hope to catch up on yours soon.

  • Terri Wingham • November 7, 2011

    It is SOOO overrated. Thanks for the comment. Hope you’re well!

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  • Philippa (Feisty Blue Gecko) • November 5, 2011

    I’m also a bit behind – internet has been sludgy and sticky for a bit. But I’m slowly catching up and your posts continue to resonate strongly. Yes, if we wait for the right time, then we will have missed many opportunities. Carpe diem!
    I’m right beside you in spirit in this amazing adventure you are on.
    Philippa
    xox

  • Autumn • November 5, 2011

    Great post Terri!! Thank you for reminding us that working towards our dreams carries with it ups and downs! I love how you always find the positive in everything, it is truly inspiring! There are some big changes Jul and I have been hesitating on, but I will try to keep your advice close to heart in the process. You will find your Mr. Right and he will be perfect for you! Some where in the world exists someone or us all, you just may have to cross oceans to meet them!! Very excited for your next adventure, curious to know what countries you will choose! Take Care!! xo

  • Terri Wingham • November 7, 2011

    Thanks Autumn – I hope that whatever you are going through right now in terms of big changes goes smoothly for you. I am always here if you’d like an ear. I am still trying to figure out which countries I’m going to head to. So much to organize and fundraise for in the next few weeks. Big big hugs to you! T xo

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