… writing your stories?  I believe they have the potential to help others, if you share them,” was the question/statement by my therapist, Greg Lippolis, LICSW that set my transformation in motion.

I had hit a personal low point—repeating self-defeating behaviors for external validation to “feel better,” … not knowing how to break the destructive cycle.  I was living a great life:  personal accomplishments, job/career I enjoy, love of my life, comfortable living, travel, etc.  So, why was I sabotaging it all?  Why did I feel never good enough, deserving or worthy?

I was desparate … and even though the thought of writing was daunting to me (not an innate talent of mine), I was willing to trust Greg.  It had to work!  I was too terrified of where I was heading.  I knew that not feeling content and joyous, especially with so many good things going for me, that I needed help.  Habitual coping mechanisms weren’t cutting it anymore.  I wanted to understand what was driving my behaviors, when I logically knew that they were counterproductive.

The catharsis that emerged from the intimate act of writing—of acknowledging my repressed pain, enabled its release.

In retrospect, I never questioned Greg why he asked me to write, or if he knew that it would ultimately heal me … but I’m forever grateful for his insight and helping me realize that, yes, I am indeed more than good enough, well-deserving and always worthy!

The inspiration to write Reclaimed, I owe to Greg, but the motivation was self-perpetuating.  The more I tapped into the lessons of my experiences, the greater sense of purpose I realized for my past, present and future.

YOU, my dear friend, are good enough and worthy, too!  You’re loved, and you matter!