I had started writing a clever blog about writing, and after staring at it for two days, I chose to start over. I heard an interview on the radio today with the author of Heroes for My Son, and now Heroes for My Daughter. The host of the radio show said something about Tina Turner, saying "Don't wait 16 years." He then went on to say how some women may have 35cents and a Mobil card in their pocket and may not be able to leave.
This interview got me thinking about my own experience. It's no secret I stayed in an abusive marriage for seven years. And, those who knew me before (and especially years after) I was in that relationship were shocked to discover I stayed with someone who would treat me like that. My first answer is always because I loved him. I was young, and believed love can cure all. I thought he loved me enough.
But, that's obviously not a good enough reason to stay with someone who would hurt you. I'll tell you a little more - When I finally left my ex-husband and filed for a restraining order, I had only been working at my new job for a few months, I had never paid a single bill, and I had no idea how to cook anything other than macaroni and cheese.
I was terrified of being on my own. Not only would I be in charge of every aspect of the home and family, but I would have to learn how to do things most people at my age took for granted. I can remember the gratification I felt the first time I mailed a check to the mortgage company. Granted, it was late because I was broke, but I did it. That was the first milestone for me. From mailing that single piece of paper out I realized I could do it. I could live on my own, support my children, and make sure we had somewhere to live and food in our bellies.
Was it easy? Hell no! I struggled constantly, dropping major weight because there was only enough food for my three kids. We used space heaters during the winter when I couldn't afford to fill the propane tank, and we didn't go out to eat. But, I learned to cook...quite well, actually. My kids grew stronger knowing they were safe. I grew stronger.
Today, I'm married to a wonderful man, someone who supports everything I do, including my dream of becoming a published author.
What does this have to do with writing, you ask? Not a damn thing. But, now you know a little more about me, and why I don't give up...ever!
"What does this have to do with writing? Not a damn thing."
ReplyDeleteAu contraire, my dear. Personal experiences in life impact writing. Passion underlies every good story. Readers want to experience tension of conflict in what they read. Your background fuels such passion in your stories. Without it, you're just another sappy, wannabe scribbler. But, when you inject yourself...your fear, the triumph, your discoveries, even the insecurities...all those feelings that ARE you will find their way into your writing, making your work worth reading. It's just a matter of time. If you capture your life intensity in the written word, you'll succeed.
I guess in a way it does have to do with writing. You know, everytime you post I love you just a little more! Muwah!
DeleteI never cease to be amazed at what I find on the internet. I knew your ex for many years, and sadly this doesn't surprise me. Not sure what makes me remember things from so long ago. I met you a few times. I found out that he passed away a few years ago. I guess that's what prompted me to start looking people up. I witnessed his behavior with a woman he lived with before he met you. I never knew he had this dark side to him before then, things were never really the same after that.
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