"As a child, growing up I never thought about success or whether I would become successful. I learned very early on what my parents' expectations of me were. I've probably said this before, but it was expected that I would grow up, marry and have a family. School was merely a formality – and with mental and emotional issues, I struggled to learn and to get ahead.
I was expected to fall into line and I never broke away from that. And although success wasn’t something I considered, I never unconsciously gave up on myself – as I continued to silently battle through my childhood issues.
There is no doubt that any recent success lies in my emotional growth, manifesting itself through my writing. I am proud of that fact. The KEY is not for us to recognise how far we've come – rather how our own personal approach and attitude towards our growth has made us successful.
For success to continue, it’s important to feel comfortable with your choices, to evaluate your ability to take a risk without you thinking you're going to fail. When you understand that failing is a stepping stone, you can discover ways to change that."
I remember having a few dreams as a child, but it didn't take me very long to figure out that I wasn't going to get encouragement from my parents.
My mother tried to brainwash me into looking after her and my dad seemed oblivious to what was happening. I don't know if he really didn't care or what his deal was, but it sure seemed like it.
You have been such a great inspiration to me with all that you have been able to accomplish in spite of your issues, and I greatly appreciate your support in my efforts.
I have been trying to take a lot of chances to improve my life by following your lead, and I have to say that it's been pretty amazing so far.
Thanks Randy. Your response gives me heart. Heart to know that writing about my experiences in the way I do, is helping you too.
My thoughts growing up, although I never thought about them in this way, brings meaning and structure into my life in ways I could never have imagined.
And although I never set out to right a wrong, writing about my struggles inevitably rights a wrong. It will never change my experiences, or yours, but understanding our experiences, should bring about clarity, enabling us to make better choices.
You know you have my support Randy. It also doesn't matter where we have the support. What I love is that you now have the confidence in yourself and that you are able to make your own changes.