Dear Desiree, just when I thought my article didn't come across the way I wanted it to, your message confirms that you got the point. I have been playing by the rules I was taught for decades. I see these same rules work for many of my white friends, but they don't work for me.

After years and years of looking at this, I realize that if those rules don't work for me, then I need to change them and your comment fully confirms that. It has got me thinking a lot and I already have some ideas.

I will definitely reach out in the New Year for a chat. Thanks so much for instilling an inkling of hope in my soul - it will keep me going.