#FINDINGYOURWINGS

Pamela Vaull Starr said: Reach high, for stars lie hidden in your soul.
Dream deep, for every dream precedes the goal.

Sue Augustine share her story in the book of Chicken Soup for the Woman's Soul: Like so many other girls, my self-confidence growing up was almost nonexistent. I doubted my abilities, had little faith in my potential and questioned my personal worth. If I achieved good grades, I believe that I was just lucky. Although I made friends easily, I worried that once they got to know me, the friendships wouldn't last. and when things went well, I thought I was just in the right place at the right time. I even rejected praise and compliments.
 The choices I made reflected my self-image. While in my teens, I attracted a man with the same self-esteem. In spite of his violent temper and an extremely rocky dating relationship, I decided to marry him. I still remember my dad whispering to me before walking me down the aisle, "It's not too late, Sue. You can change your mind." My family knew what a terrible mistake I was making. Within weeks, I knew it, too.

 The physical abuse lasted for several years. I survived serious injuries, was covered with bruises much of the time and had to be hospitalized on numerous occasions. Life became a blur of police sirens, doctors' reports and family court appearance. Yet I continued to go back to the relationship, hoping that things would somehow improve.
 After we had our little two girls, there were times when all that got me through the night was having those chubby little arms wrapped around my neck, pudgy cheeks pressed up against mine and precious toddler voices saying, "It's all right, Mommy. Everything will be okay." But I knew that it wasn't going to be okay. I had to make changes-if not for myself, to protect my little girls.
 Then something gave me the courage to change. Through work, I was able to attend a series of professional development seminars. In one, presenter talked about turning dreams into realities. That was hard for me-even to dream about a better future. But something in the message made me listen.
 She asked us to consider two powerful questions: "If you could be, do, or have anything in the world, and you knew it would be impossible to fail, what would you choose" And if you could create your ideal life, what would you dare to dream?" In that moment, my life began to change. I began to dream.
 I imagined having the courage to move the children into an apartment of our own and start over. I pictured a better life for the girls and me. I dreamed about being an international motivation speaker had inspired me. I saw myself writing my story to encourage others.
 I believe that all success begins with spreading your WINGS-believe in your worth, trusting your insight, nurturing yourself, having a goal and devising a personal strategy. And then even impossible dreams become real.




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