Vic, it takes courage to share a story from teenage years where that period of adolescence can be so hormonal and emotionally charged. Incidents like this often carry heavily with us into adulthood. You've told your story with such emotion, honesty, and hindsight.

While your teacher saw your writing potential, I'm so sorry that her critical words about your spelling and messy writing seemed to make a stronger impact with you. (I get what you mean with the "messy handwriting" bit!)

As teens (and adults), we often only hear the negative critical stuff about ourselves even when the good stuff is happening.

And wow--what a beautiful compliment: "your story was so good that she lost herself in the imaginary world you created." That sentence alone is magic!

It seems that compliment was also vivid in your memory and you've carried it through to your adulthood. And you've made that decision to "relearn to express yourself."

Now you can make your own magic. It's never too late to re-write our life stories and re-wire our brains! This is your time to shine. Well done, Vic.

I agree, writers are incredibly fragile, but sometimes that fragility makes those words come to life on the page.

Lastly, I thank you for tagging me and it touches me that you were inspired by my "Messy Writing" story. It brightened my day to read your great article. Thank you. Mary:)