From Stonewaller to Storyteller: Learning to Let My Guard Down

Facing vulnerability has always been a struggle for me. Growing up, vulnerability was a sign of weakness. That mindset has followed me into adulthood. When it came to writing my book, sharing deep personal experiences - like the deaths of my father and my husband - were particularly challenging. 

While developing the content for my book, I've sought input from various mentors and friends. A common theme emerged in their feedback: there is a perceived emotional distance in my storytelling, as if I were providing a report to law enforcement or a journalist, rather than sharing the profound and compelling tale of the intense emotions I went through.

Reliving these memories, recalling the smells and visuals from the days that I lost two very important people in my life has been harder than I anticipated. I want to tell this story because I believe it resonates with others who have experienced similar loss and adversity. My story has a layer of rawness and authenticity I want to share. Despite overcoming horrendous circumstances, I have found happiness, joy and opportunity. I am eager to share that story with all of you.