I was recently told by my former counselor that she was just a stepping stone in my journey of healing. So true but so hard to grasp when my heart was breaking reading the truth. Fear of letting go and going forward is scary. 
As I remember my past and each person involved in my life, just like yours, they were each stepping stones to where we are today. Each one, we learn from and grow while in some of those brought hurt and sadness and are stumbling blocks. Either way, through each, they pushed us forward.
I don’t like change and this last stone I was pushed off due to circumstances out of her control, which made me unsteady. Actually, they all do but with most recent ones, the distress is great.
To recognize and accept finally, it makes it easier to understand and go forward. Reminding yourself, you can do this and you do.
No matter of those before, they will always be a part of your life and testimony. I would not be where I am today had it not been for each person that was a stepping stone in my life. For that, I am thankful.
I am stepping onward, sometimes in faith believing, and moving forward. We have to in order to grow and heal.
The Lord has a plan for each of our lives and He will get us to where we need to be. Trust Him as you go about the stepping stones in life.
Just Pondering... 