Dear Shirley:

At the beginning of your post you wrote that people who were bullied develop empathy and compassion for others: not all, Shirley. Many who were bullied as children grow up to … continue to be bullied by some while they bully others. You are choosing another path, that of empathy and compassion for others.

At the end of your post you wrote that when you have children, you will not criticize them. This is the best thing for me to read from you (and would be from anyone!) One day, you will be out of your parents’ home and you will be able to assert yourself and not be in their company if they criticize you then. I wish there was a way for you to assert yourself now but it is difficult, isn’t it, because you are still.. a child and living with them.

It is excellent that you have friends, and your special friend in particular who can give you positive attention and encouragement, something you are not getting from your parents. Continue to choose people who do just that!

I think inviting your special friend for a run with your other friends so that he can make friends with them may not be a good idea. I would keep him separate. After all, he is your SPECIAL friend.

The Betty Eadie story is encouraging to you just like the image of the lotus growing out of the mud: making the best out of life even though we start… in the mud.

I am glad you feel good about your health: your optimism and high spirits are evident.

Till your next post, take good care of yourself!

anita