"New Shoes was a passing thought from years ago. I had begun a new journey in life of self-discovery. Many unanswered questions were being discovered. Many small steps were taken to begin to gain a better perspective of self. A real self-assurance was born. The journey involved a lot of hard work, persistence and determination. Such remarkable, indescribable feelings emerged. A sense of real pride was developing. A person of character and strength grew. After many years of changes and growth, a writing course undertaken got me to think about my promise to myself to write a book some day; New Shoes. I gathered up some clinical files (from cognitive therapy), organized past letters, reflective writing and poems. I devoted a March Break to undertaking the task of fully letting others in. Both the writing and reading of the book added further healing to the author. I am well aware of where I have been and who I am today. I hope to never have to experience many things again from the past. Choices I made helped shape who I am today. Through my personal growth, I am very comfortable in my own skin. No one should have to feel so terribly alone. Perhaps if I had done some of my own reading and sharing earlier, the healing process would have been quicker. Enjoy New Shoes and always remember, everyone has a story to tell."