Years ago when I was working on "family of origin" issues (as the psycho docs call them) I had to keep reminding myself that I was from that family, too. So, I had to define my own role in the big picture. Since that time, I always try to be aware of my own motives whenever I do something like what you did re the flag. It was a wonderful gesture and I think it was a fine tribute to your step-father which no one appreciated enough. It was crude and uncalled for to pick at the mispelling issue. I hope that you did not let their reactions have a negative affect upon you because you did not deserve to feel bad about your efforts to right the wrong that was done to him.

Along the same lines, in an ideal world, we would all love to have our families rooting for us when we are excited and inspired to do something meaningful with our lives. But this isn't an ideal world. And you are not going to get your family's support no matter what you decide to do considering what you have been through the past 10 years whether they are genuinely concerned that they don't want you to try and end up disappointed when you fail or if they genuinely don't think you can do it.

About going back to school: The important thing is.....do YOU think you can do it? Does your T think you can do it? Does your son think you can do it? Do your best friends think you can do it? Will all of these people support you and cheer you on? Who cares what your mother and sisters think?

We all here believe in you. We think you can do anything you put your mind to.