Dear TerriLynn & marmaduke.

I too grew up in a house where I was an outsider, an impediment shoved in the corner. Being treated this way as a young impressionable girl I collected ideas that become my own personal truths...and it was my family who created these thruths for me.

Fortunately some truths we discard along the way...However, there are certain truths that we tend to cling to, even if they are detrimental to us. I changed my life by moving to another State and cut all ties with my family to try to leave past hurts behind. But unfortunately we often carry the past pain with us.

Several years ago...I took a long hard look at my list of personal beliefs...some were beneficial to me, but most were toxic, outdated or downright ridiculous.

I now know that 99.9% of people care little about what I think or what I do...They care more about their own lives. We can’t wait for others to validate, laud or honour us...I now know that we must do that for ourselves. I now have my own beautiful home that is a safe haven from the cruelty in the world…..my parents and step sisters are now a distant memory. With tenacity of purpose and support we can hopefully find joy.