There is so much more to the story and I didn't see it then. I'm so sorry you went though that. I think the Ugly Duckling story needs to be emphasized more in that way. I'm sure he needed swan therapy;)
Jane, this is a poignant, insightful post. I remember that ugly duckling story from childhood, and you are right: the focus was always on the swan's outward appearance. I don't think I thought through the serious implications of this story. Of course, the central character would have psychological problems after being told he/she was ugly throughout his/her childhood.
For me, I can honestly say, I never fit in. I was not a popular person, ever, though I did have a few close friends. I was shy and quiet and sometimes bullied, but overall, I kept to myself. Worse was the fact that I never fit in with my family either. My values differed a lot from those of my nuclear family. I'm glad I'm now a writer and artist, who expresses her truths.
I’m still fighting myself everyday. My writing has helped sort myself, especially my memoir, from the voices that were deposited into my psyche by my family. Day by day…
My pleasure. FYI. My husband and friends think I’m
Nuts! Give me compliments all the time. I had a crossed eye when very little. Eye operation. Wore a patch in kindergarten. Skinny legs. Freckles. Red curly hair. All my friends in hs (Marymount) blond and tanned . You get the picture. I grew into a very good body, straightened hair and fair share of guys. Ask my husband of 44 years what he felt the moment he saw me 🥳. I’m 73 and on a good day feel almost pretty ! 🤩. Your writing draws me in. Very smooth and empowering simultaneously. Thanx for morning coffee.
Thanks so much for commenting. It's sad that so many of us feel that. My husband complements me all of the time and yet...so I hear you. I'm thankful my writing resonates with you. It means the world. Thanks for joining me for coffee and stopping by to chat
There is so much more to the story and I didn't see it then. I'm so sorry you went though that. I think the Ugly Duckling story needs to be emphasized more in that way. I'm sure he needed swan therapy;)
Nice post Jane. Breaking away from past trauma is so tricky!
I love this Jane, very insightful 👍👏🥰
Thanks so much, Eva!
Jane, this is a poignant, insightful post. I remember that ugly duckling story from childhood, and you are right: the focus was always on the swan's outward appearance. I don't think I thought through the serious implications of this story. Of course, the central character would have psychological problems after being told he/she was ugly throughout his/her childhood.
For me, I can honestly say, I never fit in. I was not a popular person, ever, though I did have a few close friends. I was shy and quiet and sometimes bullied, but overall, I kept to myself. Worse was the fact that I never fit in with my family either. My values differed a lot from those of my nuclear family. I'm glad I'm now a writer and artist, who expresses her truths.
I’m still fighting myself everyday. My writing has helped sort myself, especially my memoir, from the voices that were deposited into my psyche by my family. Day by day…
So sorry Wendy. I'm glad that writing is helping you. The negative voices can get ingrained and we don't realize it sometimes
Jane, My heart is breaking for the ugly duckling and for what you went through as a young girl. I'm inspiring that you are embracing your true self.
It was, what it was. I grew from it but that doesn't mean it doesn't hurt some days
This is beautiful!
Yes, I think we’ve all had to hide our true self in order to fit in.
Thanks Lori! It's so true. I think of the years I've wasted doing that
WAY too many. I wonder if that will ever change. Humans. Am I right?! lol
I haven't hide away from who I am, but my brother has..
Glad for you! Hopefully your brother find his way.
There’s so much wisdom here, Jane. If only we could have understood this in our youth.
Thanks, Rod. It took almost a life time to figure out, yet I still am trying to
It’s not so easy. I’m happy that you’re on the path.
I. One of six sisters. Native of 90210. I always felt ugly duckling. Still do.
Oh wow to both! That had to make it difficult for anyone. I appreciate you commenting
My pleasure. FYI. My husband and friends think I’m
Nuts! Give me compliments all the time. I had a crossed eye when very little. Eye operation. Wore a patch in kindergarten. Skinny legs. Freckles. Red curly hair. All my friends in hs (Marymount) blond and tanned . You get the picture. I grew into a very good body, straightened hair and fair share of guys. Ask my husband of 44 years what he felt the moment he saw me 🥳. I’m 73 and on a good day feel almost pretty ! 🤩. Your writing draws me in. Very smooth and empowering simultaneously. Thanx for morning coffee.
Thanks so much for commenting. It's sad that so many of us feel that. My husband complements me all of the time and yet...so I hear you. I'm thankful my writing resonates with you. It means the world. Thanks for joining me for coffee and stopping by to chat
I just paid to hear your words !!!!
Omg!! You are so awesome. Thank you!!
Thanks K.L. It is trauma. I know there are people that don't see it that way. I haven't until recently