Rise and shine, it’s a new year…
and time to get this out in the open… I have been working under-cover for the past 5 years. Translated: I have wasted approximately half a decade locked in my bedroom with the shades drawn dealing with the effects of my Post Traumatic Divorce Disorder. Let’s just say it hasn’t been pretty. “That which does not kill you makes you stronger”, my mom used to say. I say, “that which does not kill you only makes you fatter”.
However, having recently been smacked upside the head with the reminder of life’s fleeting and fragile nature, I decided that it was time to step back into my own, while it was still available to me. The only problem is that I lost 20 years, my self-esteem, my courage and my waistline in the divorce. So, where do I go from here?
In preparation for the new year/new me, I dusted off the dozens of self-help books I’ve had piled by my bedside for the past 10 years. I’ve read them all… some of them more than once. I started to wonder…if it really is as easy as the titles imply…”Change your life in 30 Days!”, ”Do less, achieve more!”, “Be your Best in 3 Easy Steps!”, then why am I an overweight, underachieving person living a life less than I imagined?
The problem with the self-help field is that it assumes from the get-go that we are not good enough. Hence, the “Be Better”, “Be More”, “Change Who You Are to Who You Should Be” titles. How can you make something better out of nothing? A zero multiplied by anything is still zero.
I think I’ll start by sitting down on that stack of self-help books and start taking stock of what I have right now to offer the world (warts and all). I’m hoping to rediscover there are parts of me that don’t need any help or improvement whatsoever. I’ll dig up those buried parts and let them see the sun for the first time in a while. Then, we’ll worry about what needs improving…
I just want to say I think it’s great that you’re expressing yourself. I happen to think that what you have to say can be valuable to many people, especially women.
All the books you’ve read, all the things you’ve learned, and experiences you’ve had will not go to waste. You can draw upon all that as you need it.
I think you’re about to uncover a very exciting life…Rock On!!!
Michelle,
One thing that needs no improvement is your sense of humor, creativity, beautiful smile and your gift of making all of us feel comfortable and loved. You have always been far too critical of yourself. I am learning that sometimes you need to put yourself first and boy what a response I have gotten. My children do know how to do some things for themselves, my husband is not domestically challenged and the school board can run without me! Who knew???!!! I say throw those self help books in the trash… oh who am I kidding I don’t throw anything away… donate them. Put on a little make up, take a deep breath and get back out there. You have sooooo much to offer and there are plenty of takers out there.
Love you! Mo
Well now, who knew (me of course). It is the most exciting thing to know that the world may find out what all of us that have known you know. You are a fantastically amazing woman with humor and kindness and just the inspiration that many of us need. Go for the gusto and deserve all the great things coming your way.
Love you
Michelle,
I agree with the other comments — you do have a lot to offer! I have always been on the quiet side, and I look at you as an outgoing, friendly, and gifted person (I wish I had more of your traits). I am so glad our sons became friends and we were introduced. Anyone would be blessed to have you in their life and don’t ever think otherwise! Don’t change a thing
Love,
Lisa P.
Me, too. Trying to get over Post Traumatic Divorce Disorder
L