I wish I’d read it years ago.

Being and doing what others want in an effort to make them happy can take you to some very dark places of the soul.

I, like you, have tried to settle, do what’s expected, got 2 weeks away from joining the Marine Corps, even. The Universe let me know several times that I have other things to do. I have to be ME, even if it kills me. Doesn’t always make for a harmonious existence, though. People came out of the woodworks to “put be back on the right path” so to speak. It reminds me of that phrase, “If you want peace, prepare for war.” I used to fight those that opposed me being ME. That was tiring and the battle wounds took awhile to heal. I now have ingenious ways of side-stepping those who try to block me… on many levels.

Because I choose to go around, that inflames people, and makes them come after me harder, JUST TO SHOW ME THEY’RE RIGHT. Should I choose to engage with their “efforts”, I react with peaceful detachment. I let them know that while their heart is in the right place (even though it’s really their ego on the rampage), this is my life. They can choose to witness it or find somewhere else to be. Then I move on.

My opinion about the media’s message that we’re not good enough? It’s a money thing. If we’re happy and feel good about ourselves, we don’t spend money. Insecurity is a cash cow for big business.

Having yammered on, I must say that I LOVE having you as my cheerleader! You’ve no earthly idea how much your support means to me. It chokes me up to think about it. I adore and deeply treasure you and all you’re bringing to the world. *BSH*

While I’m not living my dreams just yet, I’m a lot closer and far more confident than I ever have been before that someday, I’ll reach them. It’s a lot easier now than it used to be. And I’d encourage you in your journey as well – be strong & have faith.