Why I STOPPED Painting for 10 Years (and why you never should!)

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Don't forget to download my free PDF guides in the comments, and watch this next! How to Get Better at Art (FAST!) kzbin.info/www/bejne/q4mZZax9gsuCj5I

[@josefschiltz2192]

Eh heh. Too late! I had to stop because my work wouldn't coexist with being a sole carer and developing C-PTSD as a result. My brain - try as I might in the earlier period of this - couldn't process the two at the same time and that department shut down. I've also discovered that I've developed a hereditary tremor. To visit my disused studio room is a sad affair. It feels like it belonged to someone else, with aims completely different. I am moving and making sure that everything stays with me. I retain interest and some of the built-up stress is fading. I also found out that I have Asperger's. The tremor remains the worst obstacle. What's annoying is that nobody, even myself would tell of it's existence, except for the tell-tale twitch in the muscles of the palm of my hand. But, when I start trying to write or draw, it's enough to throw me off - like an figure skater trying to perform in an earthquake. I'm going to persist. I'm not going to let this stupid thing stop me trying to regain - in some capacity - what I've been robbed of. If there's one thing that I've inherited, that's of some use, it's the family's tenacity and stubborness. I've managed some drawing in a sketchbook, but it's been far more than ten years since I completed any work. Nearer twenty.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

@@josefschiltz2192 I have students who have produced by amazing work with health issues, arthritis etc. You could try a medium be where the finished result is not instantaneous, such as monoprinting, it would be easier than drawing for you. Just a thought.

[@josefschiltz2192]

@@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber I will, of course, look into anything and everything. A degree of anhedonism has overrun my desire to create imagery, except by Surrealist poetry, which I can type. I do miss the actual acts of drawing and painting though, which were part of me for as long as I remember. One thing I do intend is to get a huge blackboard at the new place and try to hammer out imagery on that as exercise/therapy. Because what I produce won't matter, it may be a method of removing the block and exercising my arms and hands and removing pent up frustration and anxiety.

[@bettymorgan5861]

Thank you I am 76 and I am a copy of you but in Canada. I too was a hair dresser did crafts single parent on my own stopped my artwork because of listening to other people wow I think it is time to give it another try thank you. 🤓🇨🇦

[@amaco2159]

Great video, I agree with You: don't ever give up! Best of Luck to You Michele

[@annettefournier9655]

Thanks Michele. Working class in the US on the same level is called Blue Collar. I grew up this way. You are correct. The desire never goes away . As a child I was fascinated by watercolor. No opportunity to learn. No great talent . But it never went away. Retired and discovered the internet and KZbin. I thank God for all the generous artists there.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Yes of course, blue collar. I never understood why being 'working class' was so derogatory, nothing more noble than hard work!

[@monicadewit9766]

@@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber "Civilized" life just wouldn't be the same without farmers or plumbers or carpet layers....you get the idea.

[@philippaking1732]

Thank you, Michelle. I am 70 and have wanted to be an artist since I was a small child. But it was my own inner voice that said it was an impossible dream. I have been painting since January this year and I have never felt so at peace. I still have doubts, but as long as I keep enjoying the paints, the doubts don't engulf me. Thank you again for sharing your amazing story.

[@Michelle-cz1vj]

Yes we need the rest of the story. Part 2

[@stefnash4730]

I would love to hear the rest of your story. I too went through that schooling. Never in my life have I ever painted in my life, but now at the age of 68, I have started. Thanks to you and other artists, I am enjoying art. A lot of your story has resonated with you. I became. medium, and must say people around me gave me hell. Thank you for sharing your story.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

You are welcome Stef :-)

[@karistone1297]

Good for you, Stef! I had a similar background too...and a mother who, to this day, only values studying 'practical things' such as Maths and Science. Well, she may have a granddaughter who's a doctor but she also has two granddaughters who are brilliant artists (much to her horror!)

[@suzzmail]

68 also. The olden days though😕.... have come a long way !! Painting again is wonderful!

[@LisaAnnOberbrunner]

When I was a kid, I'd always believed my mother's insults. One Christmas, I waned to learn to sing one of the more difficult pieces from Amahal and the Night Visitors. She told me I was too stupid and couldn't sing well enough. I learned the entire opera, including every part. It was decades before I had the courage to do that kind of thing again. I'm glad that I'm finally able to sometimes ignore that voice that I internalized.

[@hougrel9514]

Earlier this evening I said thank you for tips on Watercolour pencils. Now a much deeper thank you for this video and and sharing your story of adaptation, dignity, hope and determination.

[@Ruthie888]

My father wanted me to be an accountant because he was. He wanted all of us kids to do that. He accepted my choice to be a school teacher. Later, I stayed home and raised my children, hardly doing art at all, only occasionally because it was too hard with kids. Now my kids are raised, and I started writing children's books and illustrating them. I'm watching your excellent videos to remind me of techniques I learned before, or learn new ones. Also, don't beat yourself up, your path might have been important to learn to be more passionate. You're doing great.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Thanks Ruth!

[@alexklimczak4622]

Thank you for sharing your story. I love colour, but when I was little I used to use colour pencils very roughly. So, my parents and teachers always told me off. Also, my sister could draw and paint quite well. My belief was that I was not good at painting. Last year I said to myself "that's enough, you can do it", and started learning how to paint with watercolour by online tutoring. I still have a lot to learn, but I'm making progress because I realised that I can draw and paint.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Wonderful!

[@lesliestewart7692]

Your story sounds so familiar. I was told I was not college material. My family told me artists starve and I could not major in art in college. I have been creative my whole life. I’m so happy to be painting again. Thank you for this video! I want to hear the rest of your story.

[@diamantinasadkin9392]

Thank you, Michele, for sharing your heartbreaking story. I know it's hard to be that personal and vulnerable on this type of social platform. But by sharing your experiences and realizations, you are inspiring and helping many people on their own paths. I very much appreciate how you are so encouraging and telling us to be bold and not listen to others who may only be criticizing out of fear or envy. And to also not let the "inner critic" keep us from doing our art. I would very much like to hear part two :)

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

I am so glad you enjoyed it :-)

[@SophieBird07]

Love hearing your story. What you say is so true. This brings back nightmares of my youth. The big kid, put in the back row in case I blocked the blackboard for other smaller kids....I’m 5’2, 130 lb. I wasn’t allowed to take art classes, while being told I wasn’t “college material”. I think everything I know now, and I love learning anything, I learned out of school. Listen to your children!

[@patmcdonagh8939]

Brilliant film. Went through a similar experience in an awful London comprehensive school in the late 70s. After a couple of years art was taken off the curriculum and replaced by career option subjects. At 13 I thought that if I can’t ‘do’ art I’m not going to do anything else and left school two years later without any qualifications. Now I’m drawing and painting again, and exploring the art education I missed out on - and this channel is part of that. Thank you for this post, it was very heartfelt and very interesting, looking forward to part two!

[@deborahshannon2823]

This video resonated so much. In many ways, you described my childhood in the UK in the 1970s and 1980s. I had a narcissistic father who said my art was junk and only science careers were allowed in the family. I was sent to a science-centric comprehensive day and boarding school where we were caned and had similar sex segregated subjects. One good art teacher (used to be a sculptor for Madame Tussaud’s) wanted me to take O level art but the instructor I had for most of my time at the school made me sit in a room by myself, without instruction, because I was the only girl in the class...and he didn’t tell me the date and time of the O Level exam. I missed the first day and ended up with a C grade. I gave up art for 30 years; I ended up doing embroidery and crochet to fill the void. Now I’m in the process of divorcing and find myself with nothing...but suddenly the need to be creative has become overwhelming. I would love to be a fine artist or work in an artistic career but I do not have the educational background to do it.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

You don't need qualifications. Unless you want to work in a school, it's never been easier to build a career than in the age of social media. My father told me that I would do well modelling for page 3 as those were the only 'assets' I had. I envy people with kind fathers...

[@beaulieuonnp593]

Same had massive narcissist abuse in my family and elsewhere too It is a journey. In some ways I am glad to have this experience as I have learned such a lot about people and life. I am expert in red flags and my volunteer work works with narcs all the time but fortunately they get punishment as I am in in that line of work lol Art is a great therapy for me..

[@ewacollier4760]

Don’t despair about the divorce, it’s very sad and very hard but you will get through it and find your freedom, your creative side will help you through this. Good luck

[@gardeniainbloom812]

@@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber He told you that? My goodness. Good decision to cut him loose.

[@clivealmond422]

Wow I just want to give you a hug

[@maureenkemp7685]

Wow...my life seems to have parallel yours. 9 schools..hated most.subjects but loved art, history and English. Spent most school holidays on my own so sewing, drawing and reading were my lifelines. Today I still love the same things but have now added watercolour painting.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Oh wow! Glad you are enjoying painting now!

[@annhinson5670]

Oh, wow Michelle! Thank you for such a great story. I am in my late 60"s now. In my senior year I wanted to be a hair dresser. I never pursued it as I did not have any self confidence. I was a poor student and did not do well in school, except in art class. I always loved drawing and painting, although instead of pursuing my wishes I got married right out of High school, worked, raised a family but always having painting in the back of my mind and always telling myself that someday I would start. Finally in my early 40's I took water color painting lessons and did a few pieces of art. I began to take pictures of landscapes, houses, etc that I thought would make good subjects. Then I let life get in the way again and my painting stopped. It is now almost 25 years later and I started painting again although I feel more like a beginner, but I will not stop painting now. Your story was so inspirational to me. I congratulate you on your persistence to push through all the trials that life threw at you, and making your self a success. I wish I had been as strong. I'm an American and live in Arizona.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Hello in Arizona, I am glad you found your way to painting again, good luck with your work and happy new year!

[@bllackwing]

I am back doing art after being away for 40 years. When I was a child I loved drawing. I always wished for rain so I could stay indoors and draw. Unfortunately I was, and still am, highly sensitive. It took only a little criticism to convince me how bad of an artist I was, and I didn't need that pain. Now when I think my art is bad I just tear it into tiny pieces and call it 'art therapy.'

[@moyke3]

I definitely want to hear the rest of the story. My father was an artist but my handwriting was bad so everyone said I couldn't do art. They encouraged music so I became a good musician but I always wanted to take art classes. I have a long story but am now 71 and have been painting pastels for 2 years now and am learning watercolor from you. Thank you so much for persisting!

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Well done you. The rest of the story coming next week!

[@juliepinette560]

Right on Michelle!! I was destined to either nunhood or the Army. The creative voice always spoke but I finally shook off the voices at 60. Have not looked back. 2 years later I have found my voice in art. I have a lot to say after 45 years of being lost and silenced. Good on you girl. Paint on...

[@rhonda1631]

PLEASE, I would LOVE to hear how you concord and broke into being a professional artist. I'm so mad at myself for letting life get in the way, now I'm rusty and starting at the beginning and discouraged. Thank you for telling your story. God Bless

[@anitaanderson2326]

Thank you for sharing with us. I always was drawn to art but never took classes until one class in late 1998. It was suppose to be a beginner watercolour class but everyone was really experienced but me. The teacher taught to their expertise and told me to take a drawing class. She was very discouraging but it was what I wanted. I signed up for a drawing on the right side of the brain class & loved it. I then took a beginner watercolour class with another teacher and renewed my interest. Unfortunately, life got in the way and I just started doing drawing and watercolour on KZbin & online in January 2021 and now I am obsessed with doing something at least once a day. You learn something from everyone, every time you try their technique. Fortunately, KZbin and online free zoom classes don’t result in criticism or hurtful comments because only I see my work. I can be critical enough of my work .I keep telling myself that one hour of drawing or painting is a process which calms my anxiety and brings me peace of mind. The final picture or drawing is just marks on a page which the brain can read. Some I throw out and others I keep. Love your KZbin suggestions and videos. Thank you for being you

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Thanks Anita, criticism can be very useful, but it should never be cruel.

[@sherrylee6719]

I loved hearing your story. I never took art because I thought you would have to prove you were talented. I was foolish not to ask. I did go a different way and it led me to public relations, which I loved. People who tell you that you can't do something have very powerful voices Now that voice is mine. I must do better. Thank you for sharing your story. I appreciate it so much.

[@keeponkeepinon9363]

Many people believe that "talent" is necessary for creating art, but "talent" and art are subjective. Enjoy the "process" of creating in whatever "mediums" you like (quilting, painting, ceramics, photography, drawing, needlepoint, etc.)....no rule that says choose only 1 medium...have a bit of fun.

[@richardosborne7738]

Hi Michele, what you said on the video was absolutely amazing as i can connect with what you were saying and during this last 20 years i went through hell with homelessness losing my parents and being bullied and all the time that was happening i just wanted my art. So last August i made my m ind up and said now i got a flat i set about putting my art studio together along with my airbrushing studio and now that i found your you tube channel and bookmarked it i can now start doing my art along with going out with my camera's and photographing nature and i am enjoying it even more now.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Wow, that's brilliant, Richard, so glad you are doing better now, good luck with everything!

[@jilb1500]

Thank you so much for sharing your story. I had to retire during covid year, just turned 70 and started with acrylics, now watercolor and watercolor pencils. You are an incredible teacher. I've learned so much in just the 2 days I've discovered your informative, logical and easy to understand tutorials. Especially loved your explanation of how to draw faces straight on, realizing the curve of the skull!! Love how you explain how our brain tells our hands what to perceive. I painted as a teen and early 20s, then raised 3 sons and was a P.E. teacher for 25 years.....so no time to enjoy art. Have all the time now so feel excited to follow tutorials or other inspirations daily (aside from walking my dog, caring for 2 cats and 2 turtles). I am getting good feedback from friends and family, some days feel discouraged. You are helping to inspire me. Thank you again for providing your lessons on youtube, I SO APPRECIATE YOU!! Jil B. Venice Beach, Cal.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Thanks Jil, so glad you are finding my content useful :-)

[@michellehoward96]

What an incredible story! It made me cry. And you are sometimes hilarious - you have a wonderful way with words. Would make a great autobiography/film. Thanks for sharing.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Wow, thank you!

[@hannahcrumley3103]

Thank you for sharing your story! I stopped painting for nearly 20 years (from my early 30’s until early 50’s)I would absolutely love to hear the rest of your story!

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

I will put the rest up soon!

[@dianethoroughman9541]

I would love to hear the rest of your story. I am glad that you ultimately persevered with art.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

I will make that video soon, thank you!

[@chrispolette8443]

Your story inspired me to be ok with my attempt to begin painting at age 65! Thank you! I look forward to learning amazing things while watching your videos! I’m currently on my second round with your beginner’s watercolor class. Baby steps is my mantra.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

You can do it!

[@karistone1297]

OMG Michele...so many parallels! I just discovered you today and watched one of your other videos before coming across this one. I wanted to study hairdressing but wasn't allowed. The career officer told me there were no jobs in the artistic field and recommended I attend Secretarial College, which I did. My mother was divorced, receiving no money from my father, so off I went and worked as a very mediocre secretary for the next 4 years. I also completed a basic dressmaking course at some stage (my mother approved). Five children (And several husbands) later, I still loved drawing and painting and finally completed a Visual Arts course. I became a single parent again, with one of my children being diagnosed with Autism. Art went out the window again until my son turned 18 and became more independant. This year the desire to create has returned and I'm very hesitantly starting to make greetings cards. This has taken a lot of courage...my niece is a professional artist and has been featured on Australian television. My own daughter (number 5) is also on her way to becoming a brilliant artist, with lots of encouragement from me. And now, today Michelle, I've found you! Thank you. I'd love to hear the second half of your story - the first half has given me so much encouragement.❤

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

I am recording it this week! So glad it helped you, best of luck with your journey!

[@karistone1297]

@@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber Yay! And thanks!❤

[@lilyt_art]

Wow, that's an amazing story. I love that part when you said 'I'll show everyone'. That's awesome. Lots of really good advice here

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Thank you!

[@ElaineFoster101]

Ahhh! I LOVE your story! THANKS for sharing it with us. So encouraging. So believable. I got back into painting at 65 years old and I'm having a wonderful time with it. My house is full of original artwork. I give paintings as gifts. I joined the local art center this year and I'm now teaching frame making there. It is my dream to teach painting some day. I believe it will happen but I'm not rushing it. One step at a time. SO happy that you rediscovered your dream and plowed through the opposition. You are wonderful and inspiring.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Ah, you are still young then! Good luck with everything and thank you for the kind comments :-)

[@margaretlindsay4129]

Thank you so very very much for taking the time to make this video. I have spent my whole life trying to seek approvel from other people and always feeling that I was not good enough. I can relate to somuch of what you said. I have always loved art but it has taken me to reach 68 years old to realise I am good enough. I have never been so content in my life as I am now. Thank you once again for your video. You are a wonderful human being. My God bless you in all you do.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Thank you so much Margaret, that means a lot to me, good luck with your artwork!

[@emmawheeler4624]

Hi, thank you so much for sharing your story, I'd love to hear more. I stopped being creative for nearly 20 years from when I got married to my abusive ex husband, and all the way til last year when I started watching KZbin art and craft videos and re lit that furnace in me, and now I'm re-obsessed with being creative, I have to be creating every day now, and I love it. I don't do regrets, I think if I'd carried on throughout those years my arty direction would've been quite different, and possibly used against me, but I am so happy now to have this back in my life, however I am starting from scratch at basic level, but we have to start somewhere. Loving your videos and you as a person, thank you 😊

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Thanks Emma and good luck!

[@Cheeseygirl26]

My mother was a "crafter" before I was born and gave it up to raise me. I've been drawing, sketching, creating, and dreaming about art from birth! Much later in her life, my mother had the opportunity to explore her artistic side. She was very gifted, in many ways. My father was equally gifted but in a musical way that was a but more accepted in those days. Long story short, I am an only child and my parents are now gone. I was fortunate to have the ability to be a stay at home mom and looking back now, I realize all the artistic things I did/got to do. It is a yearning of the soul that I heard early, fortunately, enough to recognize what it was and to accept it and engage in it as much as was possible! However, those early heard warnings of my lack of focus, lack of physical balance, lack of any natural ability, was all I adhered to until very recently. I now declare myself an artist. And if I just keep my inner voice quiet and let my body do it's thing, I get some amazing things that happen. I love that, and I live for that feeling now.

[@vivianbunch1963]

I would love to hear the rest of your story please and how you came to be a professional artist.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Will do Vivian, thanks for watching!

[@christieraper5472]

Thank you for this video! I am 50 years old and have always been creative. I have recently made the decision to pursue art as a career. I don't know why I didn't start when I was a teenager as I have always loved it! I think I believed it wasn't a real possibility. I'm so glad I'm trying now. Wish I hadn't wasted all those years!

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

We all wish that!

[@kklyve]

Thank you so so much Michele for sharing your story! I am so glad you stuck with it after all the resistance you encountered! I don't feel so bad now! My parents met at Otis art school in Los Angeles. My mom did watercolor and my dad did pen and ink Illustration. People would always ask me "well do you do art too"?.....well no....I don't do it like my parents can. I wasn't really encouraged to do art. My parents said I should learn to be an accountant or anything else besides art. I would always like to doodle. I went to a community college and learned how to print with a printing press and do photography. Sorta kinda like art, but having enough space where I feel I could excel at something. I was always poor and always had to think about making a living. I used to doodle on napkins and was told not to do that because it wastes napkins. I wish they would have taught me? They said if I want to learn, to take some classes. If I took classes and learned I was no good. I would be devastated, so I didn't really pursue it. I am 63 now......I have had nothing but trouble in school and in life....In grade school, they told my parents I should go to an institution for retarded people. I had a hard time speaking. My parents tested me and I was above average. I was able to eventually print my parents stuff, so I felt I had a niche. People kept saying later I should be tested, so I was tested by a psychologist and I do have some mental things wrong with me, but the doctor said I was really good with "spatial" and "patterns"....so basically the doctor said in effect I could do "art". I am retired now. I don't have to make a living. Have time to doodle or do art. I guess I do whatever I do. Not everybody has to like it. It is kinda a therapy for me. Makes me not think about anything and be relaxed. You're right, the schools back then were very rough. Art is very personal and sometimes I feel that if a person doesn't like my art they don't like me because it is an expression of what is inside me. That is not the case though and everybody is different and likes different things. There are psychological aspects to art and how a person deals with it. Thank you so much for addressing these psychological aspects and I am so glad you explained your story. I can relate to it very much. There is so much to learn and I still don't know a lot of the basics to it. I heard"Life" is what happens to you when you try to go from point A to point B. Seems like the truth. My parents were busy trying to make a living and I don't fault them for not teaching me. I don't think they knew the mental blocks I had. They are passed away now and doing art makes me feel close to them as that is what they did all the time. I am so glad you didn't stop Michele for too long and you kept going! Thank you, You are the best in the world!

[@vickigower8125]

Thanks for sharing your story Michele. If you haven't already done so on another video that I've not watched yet, I would love to see how you made your dream come true. We are all lucky that you didn't allow the trials that you faced to stop you from becoming a gift to those of us who are blessed by your teaching. You're a super star!.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Thank you! The rest of the story is coming in a couple of weeks.

[@loisallen3078]

Michelle you story is so inspiring and such good advice. follow your dream and not listen to others, sometimes hard to do but it can be done. I am in my senior years and just started watercolour painting when the pandemic hit and I have loved it and didn't know that I could paint or call myself an artist. But here I am learning on you tube from you and various others how to paint. It has been a wonderful journey and hope to continue for many years. Thank you again for your good advice. Never give up ...

[@lightloveandawake3114]

Awesome, story, sure, I would love to hear more, yes, it’s so sad that we believe what others have told us…but like you said some of them honestly believe that there is no livelihood in art. Thank you for making your videos, I’m 52 years old and finally learning from others such as yourself. Have a wonderful day💗😊💕

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Thank you! I did make the second video, you will find it in my 'motivation' playlist.

[@richellebd]

Thank you for sharing your story! Your channel is helping me to discover art at the age of 28. I’d given up on it before I was even in high school because I let others convince me it was a waste of time. Now I’m finally doing this for myself and I won’t let others project their opinions and fears of failure onto me again!

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

You can do it!

[@Nadasna]

Thank you for sharing your story - it was inspiring and very helpful. I grew up in a small Midwestern town in the U.S. and was subject to the same restrictions that you were - I wasn't allowed to take shop even though my father was a farmer/carpenter and I was my father's side kick so I grew up playing with hammers and nails instead of dolls. The boys weren't allowed to take Home Economics as it was called back then. But I was lucky with my art teachers in grade school and higher grades - they were wonderful and encouraging. But having to support myself full time since I was 20 and single was time-consuming. Now that I'm retired, I'm pursuing art of all kinds and loving it but I regret, due to my own insecurity of feeling of not being good enough -even though my teachers praised me constantly - I did not pursue my art seriously. You need to have faith in yourself to follow an art path and I wish that I would have had that confidence earlier but I cared too much about people judging my art. Now that I'm retired, I don't care what people think!

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

I am glad you found your way in the end :-)

[@tbm7187]

I'm so glad you were plucky enough to find your way. I was constantly moving as a child so I totally get that!

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Thanks, it's really tough to constantly move schools. My cousin had the same, he swears he did one more school than me 😅

[@tbm7187]

@@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber that's funny. I'm in my 50s and have moved over 50 times. No lie. My brother helped me make a timeline because I just couldn't remember all the places! The last 10 years I've been in the same place! Loving that!

[@isabellahernandez9458]

I would love to hear the rest of the story! thank you so much for sharing. it is very good to hear other artist stories to know I'm not the only artist who has struggled. I had stopped making art for 2 years after high school. I worked hard for 2 years on an abstract series in acrylic paint. that I had to turn in for my collage level exam and I did not pass the exam with the score I hoped I would get. I was completely devastated and I beat myself up telling myself I was not fit to fulfill my dream as a professional artist. At that time I also went into hair dressing and hated it. now after 4 years of no schooling I started art school! I'm still learning and growing and your videos are so helpful!

[@MontyVideo969]

Thanks Michele. My Mum used to tell us six kids - "all experience is good, even when it's bad". It took me a long time to figure out that she meant it makes us the people we are.

[@peggygee9838]

Thank you! I understand those negative thoughts that live in your head. My first Art rejection was when I was 6 years old. I was so proud of my art project and the teacher crushed my spirit because I didn’t follow her instructions. Being very much an introvert, I was very reluctant to share my projects after that.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Happens to so many people...

[@SKY-qf8qq]

Thanks for sharing. Respect. I’m coming back at 60 years old.

[@cafecito25]

I look forward to hearing the rest of your story. I waited longer than you to go back to doing art. I am now 61 and I have been practicing watercolor for one year. A lot of what you tell about your experience with Art has really resonated with my own. Thanks for the encouragenent🙂

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Best of luck! I am doing the follow up in a couple of weeks :-)

[@nicholaswhitehead5211]

What a moving and inspirational story - am so glad you made it through to enjoy, express and share your talent.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Thanks so much!

[@delmar5652]

Thank you Michelle!! That happen to me and i had to study something different. So after 17 years old i stop from painting only as a hobby and then i said i will again when i retired. And now i am retired i am painting but afraid to start proffesional since i feel to old 68 year old. But i enjoy learning from your videos. At least you only lost 10 years and you are so young you have a hold live ahead of you. I am sorry to take your time to your story. But if somebody read it. Don't stop what you like, keep it up.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Never too old Delia. I have no interest in retiring, rather be doing stuff! Of course, both are possible too :-)

[@ewacollier4760]

Thank you Michele for telling your story. I’m probably 15 years older than you and your story brought back memories of what school was like and the very limiting beliefs society instilled in us. I’m delighted that you broke free and have proven “ them “ wrong. I tentatively returned to art 20 years ago and it’s only since I retired, put my life back together again and with the help of Covid lockdowns have had the wonderful opportunity to dedicate more of my time to art. I’m so grateful to artists like you who produce KZbin videos, providing us with encouragement and inspiration. Good luck with your journey. I find you a very interesting person and would love to hear the next instalment of your journey.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Thanks Ewa, glad you liked the video!

[@arielle2745]

Thank you so much for sharing your story! I am stunned at how similar your story was to mine, at least from the point of view that we are in the same generation and had similar issues of class and home life. So many of my younger friends are quite astonished how different schools were back then. I am so glad you were able to do an art career. I never was. But I am so happy I am free to make as much art as I want to now. Your story meant a lot to me. Thank you. 😊

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Thank you. Younger friends were chatting the other day about how much worse their childrens schools were (after one was picked on). And I thought, ah, you didn't go to school in 1970's/80's London!!

[@awhalewatcher]

Good on you Michele! You are so brave. I admire your tenacity against the odds. School back in the 60’s in Australia was based on the same system as the UK. My grade one teacher loved to slam our fingers between the desk and the desk lid. Nice! Anyway, thank you so much for baring your soul for all us wannabes. 🌷👏

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Oh wow! Sadistic teachers!

[@kathleenalbright3908]

Thank you for sharing your story. You are a talented artist and an incredible teacher. Reading all those Stephen King books must have taught you a way with words because you explain things very well. I too have encountered troubles both in childhood and as an adult. I gain strength from the phrase "Be thankful for the lessons learned, and move on". You have certainly moved past adversity and become a talented artist and are inspiring others to do so also.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Thanks Kathleen!

[@ymrabc]

Michele, thanks for sharing your story - your early life and education sounds remarkably similar to mine. I wanted to be a chef but was told to learn to type and ended up as a copy typist at 16. Going to university was never an option for anyone from my background. I have always been creative and ended up taking a course at evening college resulting in me working for myself as a designer/maker of knitwear. Since I’ve retired I have tried to learn new crafts, recently taking up silk painting and now I’m starting to learn watercolour painting. I just love working with colour. Colour and music are the things that have given me consistent pleasure and comfort throughout my whole life and as I have got older I have learned to be kinder to myself, every painting is a learning experience and I strive to improve but I no longer criticise my efforts so harshly.

[@dalemills7926]

I too didn't paint for a long period of time..I did WANT start back but it was arduous, and no inspiration , till SOMEONE asked me to teach...I thought I had no teaching abilities, but discovered I did and now enjoy it all over again

[@criss9607]

I want to hear how you turned art into your career! Btw, I'm 34, I've listened to others, I've not only ended up unhappy, but also the people that I listened to are displeased with me, so fingers crossed that I can follow into your footsteps and return to art as a career! Thank you so much for sharing your story!

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

That's the worst of it, we try to please others at our own expense and it doesn't even work!

[@ferdi5407]

OUTSTANDING video!! So.much of myself in it. THANK YOU ❤❤❤ Definitely saving this video to watch again and again. My paintsxand paintbrushes have been in a box for far too long.....Michelle Webber you have spurred me on. You are my INSPIRATION!

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@mamstrat3047]

Your story of younger school years is very much like mine . I was told I would amount to nothing which was true . I was told I could do A level art in 4th year seniors but I did nothing about it and my parents couldn't afford me to go to college. I still can't afford it . Thats why your videos are invaluable to me.

[@cherylbrewer1218]

Thank you Michele. A lot of what you said resonated with me . I used to love drawing at home as a child but I cant remember doing any art at school & was never encouraged by anybody to take art as a subject at secondary school as it "wouldn't lead to a proper job". I left school at 16 for a job as a typist then secretary . I then got married & had three daughters & never did anymore art until a few years ago (I'm now 61) when I discovered you tube tutorials. I feel as if I really missed out on doing art & only do it now as a hobby when I get the chance. Alot of my time is taken up with my six grandchildren now . Loved listening to your story Michele 🙂

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Thanks Cheryl, ah the legendary 'proper job', heard that a lot!

[@cherylbrewer1218]

@@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber ❤

[@michaelbeckett7656]

wow i can relate to a lot of this! i always loved drawing (especially cartoons) as a child, but there was always something keeping me from taking an art course in high school. the big one was i am partially red green color blind. an art career wasn't for me the counsellors said. i had switched schools many times like you and was always the new kid, so eventually i just didn't want to put up a fight. i have had many hobbies come and go over the years and they all felt like decorating someone else's artwork... until i rediscovered drawing in my 40's. learning to paint with color was painful but at that point in my life i was like don't tell me i can't! lol. i hope all the young people watching and reading here get the inspiration to stand up and defend their passion whatever the odds. you do you! art gets me through the day now that i'm a retired old coot! haha

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Many men are colour blind, it's genetic of course. But it shouldn't stop you making art. I once taught a chap who grew up thinking snow was pink and the family cat was green, his colour blindness was very severe!

[@Waif4us]

Michelle, the exact same thing happened to me in the early 2000’s! I just couldn’t do it, but i always had the itch. I returned to my art center and had 2 teachers who didn’t help. Then I found you tube and was so encouraged that I started teaching beginner classes in my home. I am not a professional by any means but I was told on e that I loved learning and that I should pass what I know along. Thank you for sharing your knowledge withus!

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

To teach you only need to know a little more than your students. And if you teach for long enough you will learn much. Thank you for watching!

[@highonart2204]

Wonderful listening to you. I am sure this is going to encourage so many. Like Steve Jobs says "Connecting the dots". You can only connect the dots looking back. Going forward it always seems we are lost. And your story is such a great example of carrying on regardless - with art or whatever you feel you are meant for.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

I hope so!

[@janemacomber3837]

Thanks. I have been following you for a couple of months now. You provide structure. I will often wander away because it can be tedious. I go to artists who throw the water color down with abandon, and somehow make it work. But I need both. And I love this! Today you are speaking to me.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Wonderful!

[@maggietattersfield2859]

I am so inspired by what you have said. Thank you! ❤️

[@marleneb.455]

I’d love to hear the rest of your story.

[@wayneparker2593]

Wow, Michele your story resonates with me so much. To cut a very long story short I am 68 years old now and doing the thing that was always missing in my life now I write, play music , have acted but more importantly I draw and paint. Life lessons, we are always learning aren’t we……I am inspired by your videos, all power to ya girl!

[@dalemills7926]

Steph....I'm nearly 72 ..lol Monday in fact....and I quit painting 6 years ago . This old woman started to teach others how to paint 🎨...I live in Florida now and got inspiration from others in our retirement community , to teach..I never thought I could ..but they have given me back my joy and I've never been happier..never too old to lean and never too old to teach others ..

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

That is awesome!

[@melong424]

I want to congratulate you on all of the obstacles you have overcome. Alot of us learn more effectively on our own and being self-taught brings uniqueness and innovation to the skill you wish to acquire. Structured learning doesn't work for every person. It seems as if you (as I do also) need to express yourself in visibility as well as verbally. No matter how articulate you are (and you are ), there is always something more thar can be added visually. Our childhood sounds as if they were similar. My father was not a positive force in my life. My mother raised me and taught me how to be a man or to be more accurate, a man with a uniquely feminine perspective. I digress, I find your videos amazing. You are honest about your mistakes. Your technique is great. Your passion for teaching emanates from you .

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Thank you, I learned from many artists (as I will tell in the future) but formal education is not for me. Too stroppy for one thing :-)

[@ciaspo]

Hi Michele, thank you very much for sharing some of your personal story. Back in time I haven't been allowed to join an art school because "art would have never given me any money". Unfortunately I believed the lie so I ended up doing something else for the rest of my life. But I recently started to paint for the pleasure of it, because the 'siren song' never really stops. I watch your videos and I learn a lot through your teaching; thank you very much for making and uploading them. And if you were willing to share the rest of your story I would definitely appreciate it a lot!

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

I will do that :-)

[@mamstrat3047]

Thank you so much for all the hard work you have put into your videos. You are my favourite channel. I could listen and learn from you all day. I've started doing art again after 35 years . X

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Wow, thank you, that's a very kind thing to say!

[@kathytincler2446]

What an awesome story so far. Of course we want to hear the rest of the saga! Tfs

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

You got it!

[@beebee4095]

Good for you Michele..I am very successful in my chosen art and able to retire at 38 all because I followed my love of art and took no notice of anyone from School teachers and School advisers to my family and like you, I was told ‘do office work and stop fantasising about having a career in art’. Well I love art and could not stop doing what my brain constantly told me it wanted to do.. And now my family are proud of me… but most of all.. I am proud of myself and my hard work sticking to what I wanted to do with my life. Thank you for telling your life story I hope it will encourage others to follow their instinct to do what they are meant to do with their life. 🌹

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Wonderful. I wouldn't retire even if I won the lottery, I love to work!

[@beebee4095]

No, I have not retired because of my art.. I did what I wanted to do which enabled me to retire at 38 which has enabled me to dedicate my life to my art, which I then did a degree in studying art, in oils, acrylic and watercolour. I found the watercolour the hardest and even though I got a first, I still do not feel confident in watercolour.

[@artofevan4699]

Good God! You overcame a lot of difficulties to be an artist. Bravo for making it and sharing your story.

[@cherryj]

Thank you for this story. My upbringing was similar and our career advisors said we had a choice of shop,factory or office work. I loved art at school even though the teachers didn’t do much teaching. After leaving school I didn’t do any until I retired and now 3 years later I love it and have learnt so much on KZbin etc. am really having fun at last!

[@robynwhite5662]

I’d love to hear part two!!

[@notclagnew]

Thank you for sharing your story - I experienced a lot of the same things and I also take certain things to heart (some discourage and some spur me on). At school I was encouraged to do science as “arts didn’t pay”, plus I was intimidated by the art class at school - I didn’t realise everyone can draw if they practice (like any skill). Artists are put on a bit of a pedestal too, my only exposure was via exhibitions. It’s been so helpful seeing sketchbooks and behind the scenes in some exhibits recently. I am excited about watching more of your videos!

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Thanks so much, glad you liked the video!

[@LindaDaly-c4f]

I am 82 and my story is similar. During years of working as a mental health therapist I studied art therapy and did that for several years. I stidied weaving while working and retired at 60 to start a business in key qest selling we oven and neaded bars to tourist for 12years.. I retied for yhe second tome and started studying water color after trying to teach my self with acrylics. After 6 years of going to classes I now teach watercolor and belong to a Art Guild that display and sell in our area. I guess it is never too late.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Fantastic! Well done :-)

[@skywatcher5725]

Michele, you are just amazing. There are several things I have in common with you; I grew up in the country in the US and loved animals, reading, gardening, nature, drawing and sewing. Math has always been a challenge for me. I had a good mother, I did not like my father. I had hopes of obtaining a college degree, but only succeeded in completing a couple years of academics, including one drawing class. Poverty was my enemy. If I could start over, I would pursue my interests instead of what was offered. I know I have an artist on the inside of me that desperately wants to get out. I am following your instruction and I know I will be an artist because that is what I want to be and that is what I can do. You are my guiding light.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Thanks so much and good luck to you! :-)

[@daphnebessette5636]

Wow, Thank you Michele for sharing your story. You should be very proud of what you've accomplished. I would like to hear the rest of the story sometime. I too went 10 years without so much as picking up a pencil to draw. I had a total nervous breakdown and ended up with an "Artistic unbottling" while recovering in a mental institution. I had other reasons for being there, but you are right. Repressing the creative urge can actually cause some pretty severe damage to the creative person's psyche. That was over 13 years ago. I don't make a living with my art, but I make sure I've had some artistic outlet ever since.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

So glad you found your way back to art!

[@patriciabarsby5600]

Thank you for sharing your story with us and well done for getting there in the end! I was one of those shy quiet kids at school who had a teacher that kept bullying me because they could. I was useless in his eyes and even wet myself in fear during his class, so you can imagine how he used that against me too. My grades suffered since at that time he taught our class all day every day. When I finally got to senior school everything changed for the better, even the scariest of teachers were nice to their own class and I was encouraged and did very well always coming within the top seven in exams. I loved art and had always done it as a hobby but when it came to leaving school age 15, the choice was to stay an extra year to do the typing & shorthand course sitting an exam for this only. It didn’t interest me as I wanted to do art. My father was encouraging, my mother less so as she didn’t see the point. After all, I would be married in a few years and we needed income now. My father took me and some of my work to a nearby college and we got an appointment with the head of the art department and a letter from my art teacher in senior school. I had to draw some on the spot sketches for the art master. I cannot remember now the details he and my father discussed but in had something to do with my getting an assisted scholarship to be able to go there. I was buzzing, although also apprehensive in some ways, having little confidence in myself. When we arrived home and mum was filled in, she went off the scale, is probably how I best think of it. It wasn’t what was going to happen, I would be wasting my time, she’d been keeping me for 15 years and it was time I put something back. So in short, it never happened for me and I ended up in a retail job. The years passed and only once my family had grown up and I’d got grandchildren did I think to pick up drawing again. I started my first real watercolour age around 65ish, teaching myself. I’m 74 now and paint regularly but feel I haven’t quite got back to where I would like to be at with it, but I love it. So all I would say is, if it’s what you want to do, the opportunities these days are there for you, so go for it!

[@judigibbs]

You are another example of people are not what we think they are - as Oprah says, everybody has a story and yours is certainly very interesting and also encouraging. I was also discouraged from doing art as I didn't have talent, which was God-Given. How could we do anything to change that? But at the ripe old age of 73 I have taken up paintbrush and pen - Covid gave me the time and reason - and I am so in love with all of it. I am still trying everything I can and constantly impress myself (and my #1 fan - husband) with what I am doing. There is no end to what I would like to try and the community I have discovered online has been a true life-saver. It is people like you who can help to undo damage from negative comments in our past and I feel so great about my art. It is fun, relaxing, beautiful and something that is entirely MINE. My walls are covered in my work and my sister put together a frame containing some of my very early works for my birthday. I LOVE IT and it sits proudly on my mantel. Thanks for being such a positive part of my journey; I watch your videos very often and love to start my day doing something related to art. Take care, Michele.

[@colleenmcchesney1482]

Thanks for sharing this with us. Your story resonates with me as well. Definitely a familiar situation. I would love 💕 to hear the way you became a professional artist and how you actually succeed. This is a wonderful motivational help for me to continue to grow and learn how to become a better artist 👩🏻‍🎨. I am two years into learning on my own through KZbin videos, books, and just trying things out for myself.

[@jennyd9543]

Great video. I was very frustrated over the years in terms of art because I struggled to draw, but I loved colour. That love of colour translated into gardening, and crafts. The last few years I have been practicing watercolour painting and really like it. I try to practice some drawing but I also don't hesitate to trace a picture so that I can get down to the colouring part. I agree with you that people don't like us to move out of our pigeon hole, especially parents and siblings. I share my new successes in painting and writing with the friends who don't feel threatened by it and leave the others in the dark.

[@miriammolloy5900]

Thanks Michelle for sharing your journey on becoming an artist like u its always been my career choice for a long long time although i have not gone to college i spend many hours painting. The journey is not easy , ur story has given me great insight and a major reality check , but nevertheless i will still crack on. Thanks so much

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

You are so welcome!

[@celiacannon8345]

Hi Michelle, I enjoyed hearing your story. It seems that we artists are different breed. I somehow got a job painting a Catholic Church in 1992! I really had no experience, just talent. I faux marbled 20 huge pillars. They let me paint the bases first to see what I could do. I had a terrible fear of heights so dragging a 20 foot ladder around a big church and climbing up with paints, brushes and feathers and overcoming my fears was difficult. I did it, it came out wonderful. They asked me to paint the walls next. I’m older now so painting on paper is the way to go!

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Wow, 20 pillars is a LOT!

[@mariannehanneborgaas5267]

Oh, Michelle. How brave of you to share this. I also love reading and drawing from my early childhood, and then learning sewing as an adult ( safely away from school and the feeling I got of being clumsy). So I have three great hobbies. My point: I had an uncle who was an architect. He commented a self portrait drawn from the side, (which I had made in my mom’s vanity mirror ( triple): “You can do better than that”. I was say 14 years old. It’s over 50 years ago. The only thing I can see that is obviously wrong in that drawing, is that the ear was set too low. Why couldn’t he just said that instead? How adults discourage and hurt children all the time without even blinking! His comment stuck for a lifetime! Hugs to you and bravo for your “I’ll show them all”!😘

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Thank you, yes we all are affected by these long ago comments!

[@procambarusclarkii]

Can definitely relate to people not wanting you doing something different.

[@MoonFlower-won]

So funny.....a sister from a different mother! I have a very similar background. I went to Hairdressing School twice.... and hated it, as well. Now I just do family's hair. I also moved from school to school but always wanted to be an artist but thought that it was a 'no money line of work' and a 'curse'. Now, I am 65 and I am determined...money or no...that I am going to do what I love! Thank you for your videos. I really enjoy watching them and am learning a lot.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

You are very welcome. I enjoyed learning hairdressing, but working in the industry was a drudge!

[@lindabullock6159]

Thank you for sharing your story. It is very encouraging to see your success. I am 70 and just want to make art. I'm having so much fun. My husband thinks I should frame everything I paint. I've been painting for 2 months. Lol

[@frischefrohnatur]

Thanks for telling us your story. I‘d love to hear how your life continued

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Thank you, then I shall tell it, one day!

[@jperry6779]

Thanks for sharing your story. Just to hear someone else give voice to ones thwarted desires was enough for me to get out of this slump that I am in. I have been painting/drawing for the past couple of years and still subject to the negative voices in my head. Kudos to you for perserveering - all the best.

[@nadinebu]

Thank you for this! I found myself nodding all the time. I also have a time of hibernation behind me as an artist (also almost ten years, actually). Mostly because I became a mother, and I found that I cannot concentrate on my art when tending to the little one, but also because back then, about ten years ago, I tried to get a job as an illustrator, went to the Frankfurt Book Fair and only got disinterest as a reaction to my portfolio. So I started to think that I was not good enough. Yes I did study graphic design, but only after doing and apprenticeship as a secretary (haha) and working a few years on the job as well - because my parents said that this was the much safer thing to do! So I lost many years, plus I chose the wrong design school unfortunately, and there were no teachers for illustration there. Well it did teach me a good eye for composition, and that redoing is very often good when you want a project to become something that you like. But I never liked being a graphic designer. I always wanted to paint and draw. People keep asking me wether I can make them a business logo, but that is about the most hated things I am supposed to do as a graphic designer. It is just not fun for me to reduce a design more and more to bring out the essence, to create a good logo. I could do it (and I have), but it causes me mental pain, if you so will. For me, at the moment, to be able to paint and draw again, I have told myself that I will not do commission work (for the moment). I will only let it go wherever it wants to, without anyone talking me into things. And it seems to work, I started watercolour paintings, paint with acrylics, and I started to sculpt with polymer clay, which seems to come easy to me. We´ll see where that leads me to. Wednesday is my day off work, where I do art things now.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

People who love us want us to be 'safe' but sometimes that kills our dreams. Good luck with your work!

[@GueranJones-x7h]

LIFE IS NOT A STRAIGHT LINE. IT HAS VALLEYS EVEN CLIFFS, MOUNTAINS TO CLIMB. THERE ARE RAIN STORMS,TORNADOES THAT UP-END OUR LIFE. ITS BEEN WRITTEN "CIRCUMSTANCES AND SITUATIONS BEFALL US ALL" THANK YOU FOR SHARING YOUR STORY.

[@anneedmunds9025]

Very interesting story. There parells to my life but I did become a poet which was my first love and now I try to combine it with art. I was 56yrs old before I got into art. I am enjoying it very much. Thank you for sharing

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Wonderful!

[@mandalouw5307]

Thank you so much! I’m 70 and can start now after 40 years due to nearly the same as you. Your story really encouraged me! Manda from South Africa (Southern Cape)

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Hi Manda! Good luck :-)

[@rosieleat6868]

Oh gosh I was born in 1961 and I so relate to your story of schools in London! Brutal alright! We came to NZ when I was 13. Like you, I had nothing to do with my father - thank you for sharing your story :) xx

[@leslie-annepepin8927]

I think we have a lot in common! I am much older then you (68), but the school stories resonate! Teachers had straps, could sexually harass, etc. with no way for us to get help. And absolutely never give up! I was desperate for a horse from age 4. Finally got 2 at age 58. Sadly had to rehome them after 2 years as I had to have brain surgery and could no longer risk getting hurt. I really appreciate your videos. I totally love your humour! So I get to learn and have a bit of a chuckle. What could be better? I, too, have always been a bookworm. Thank you for sharing.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Thanks for sharing Leslie-Anne :)

[@PatriciaPageMosaicArtsCrafts]

Wow! I wonder if we went to the same school, I was bought up in London, in school we got the cane for ridiculous reasons, so many things you said I can relate to, I really would love to hear the rest. You are awesome ❤

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Thank you. I went to pretty much every school in London (slight exaggeration). I managed to avoid the cane, although they did have it at one school, always on the hand...

[@monicadewit9766]

thank you so much for sharing....I can certainly visualize how invested you are in your story (sorry that sounds cheap and unempathetic). Instead of being critical and cynical, you are benefiting other people and helping to prevent the horrible things that have happened to you. You sure showed them! You go girl!