taken, if not for others, but for myself. I could not let my life close silently keeping quiet about the spiritual experiences that have governed my life. The good Lord raised me.

I hope to give children and adults alike the courage to speak of present and past abuse they are faced with and trust in the telling that the listener will not be judgmental, but give credence and understanding of what is shared.

Do not feel sorry for me. The things that have transpired in my life has made me the caring person I am.

Along the way, my hope is that you, the reader, will have a good laugh at some of my antics and maybe shed a tear or two at others.

To quote Helen Reddy's song "I am Woman,"

Oh yes, I am wise.

But it's wisdom born of pain.

Yes, I've paid the price.

But look how much I gained.

I can do anything.

I am strong.

I am invincible.

I am woman.

The tellin' has indeed taken courage to tell.