I am not where I came from, I am what I choose to become.

Carl Jung had it right.

I try to live in the moment every day, yet there are times when I look back with appreciation that I conquered my demons.  Compared to most people, I had it really good - I just lacked some coping skills.  I have a mother who is (and has always been) in my corner, loving me despite the mess I was.  People appeared in my life just when I needed their help.  Some are still here, others are not.  Now I have a family of my own who loves me and is eager to spend time with me.  I have friends who love the adventures (read: escapades) we have.  I'm blessed and I appreciate what I have and where I came from.  But I'm not done.  I still have people to meet and things to do.  It's important to me to help folks in any way possible because that's what helped me in my darkest moments.  Sometimes it's just a smile and/or a empathetic ear.  Other times it's being assertive by standing up against negativity.  It can be as simple as seizing an opportunity to assist someone.  The strangest thing is I end up feeling better afterwards, just by being kind.  Pay it forward! 

Remember this always my daughters, your choice is what you become since you have no control of where you come from.  Focus on what you still have to do while taking care of yourself... That is how you attain true happiness.