I’ve always let other people influence me too much.

I was nearly date raped as a teen, because I trusted a “friend” who said I need to experience life more. i was talked out of going to art school because my parents convinced me that as a girl, I needed to learn something practical. I almost married someone who was abusive, because my mom convinced me that I was ugly, and “couldn’t do any better.” I’ve helped folks who (ultimately) took advantage of me… because I was convinced it was my duty as a friend. I tried to get into the “art scene”…. only to be told repeatedly that I had no talent and there was no place for me. These are just examples… but the point is….. I will no longer listen. I am not listening. …