There has been some concern expressed about whether or not I am revisiting my old days of drug addiction.

And the answer is:

NO

I am not messing around with drugs. I was an addict from the age of 21 until the age of 29. I am happy to say that I am drug free, and as of late, alcohol free. But- I do not intend to give up the enjoyment of good wine. I've just been busy doing things that require me to abstain.

I am working in one of the toughest ghettos in the United States and my students are a product of their environment.

One day they come to class lucid and focused and the next day they arrive unable to hold their heads up in class.

I can relate to the reasons why people use drugs and alcohol, and I feel sympathy for my adult students who are fighting a challenging battle surviving and have allowed themselves to become addicted in an attempt to cope with their very difficult lives.

I think of my students at times when I am off work and enjoying the comforts of my home. I am taken back to a time in my life when I had similar battles and heartbreaking disappointments to endure. I remember waiting and waiting for someone to save me. No one ever came.

But- I learned to get up and take charge of my life. And this is what I am giving to my students. The ability to get up and take responsibility for themselves and their children. And I give them the skills and the equipment to empower themselves in pursuit of a better life.

Thank you to all for your concern, and a big hearty "FU!" to those who would enjoy seeing me fail.

LOVE AND HUGS TO ALL~

Blue