There was a time in which I lived in fear of my parents, their words, their hands, dad's belt, the hurtful words, that still ring in my mind. In the first church I entered the Sunday-school teacher told me, "You're so stupid, you're going to hell," Every chance I had was spent in back alleys among dirt, filth, and wildflowers, it was more comfortable than home. I've had more challenges than most. I am a conquer-ess of my circumstances, a Certified Medical-Surgical Registered Nurse. I'm a survivor and an avid advocate. Through writing and therapies, I've grown and healed. I share, now, in hope my words will help others find their strength, or aide others to understand.