Excerpt
I used to think that I was just destined to learn everything the hard way. Like the fact that my value as a person is not determined by anyone except me. As it turns out, I have been so blessed that I have only had glimpses of what real pain and heartbreak is.

I have never had to endure the trauma of assault, sexual or otherwise. I have never known the agony of having my child taken from me. I have not lost a dear parent or sibling. But I have watched people close to me endure those things and more. And I have had my own glimpses of lost love, depression, and the trials of being a single mom. Just recently, I realized that this is the gift I have been given. I have enough experience at this point in my life to be able to be a knowledgeable support to those who need it, but not so much trauma that I let it get in the way of being a good listener.