True to Life End of the Summer Essay? I've been up all night crying, although I wouldn't describe it as a cruel fate like one of my stories. I debated with myself about whether to discuss my health, since I don't want to make it more of a focus than it already is. Yesterday was Labor Day, and I attended the obligatory end of the season picnic with my family. What could have been horrible turned into glorious. Although I wish to be perceived as my namesake, I'm like a lot of girls here who never really became themselves so to speak, so pronouns and nouns won't surprise, although after this posting, I'll likely never use the following expression again, as precious as the moment was. I told my brothers about my illness, and that I am finding out more about it every day. My tremors are permanent, and the medication will mitigate the symptoms only about 50%, which may affect my ability to re-gain employment. My younger brother looked as concerned as he could be, but had nothing to offer, since he is plagued with a sad inability to express emotion; owing to my father's abuse of all of his kids, I suppose. I, being the third child, suffer no lack of emotion and cry more than any other sibling; more so now that I'm fighting depression with little success. My sister has since gone on to be with my precious God, and I expect she is having the time of her eternal life with Him. Which leaves my older brother. Vito Salvatore; Life and Salvation; Imagine that? We were saying our goodbyes at the end of the afternoon and he came up to me and gave me a big hug. Like some of my characters, he gave me a kiss on my neck, almost like a Biblical blessing. I wept unashamedly in his arms, confessing my fears over my uncertain health and future. He kissed me again, and I was transported back almost to time when things weren't so bad with my Dad, and I felt for the first time in decades like the little (here it comes....) brother. While I currently am struggling with my identity, it felt good to be that little boy once again, if only for a little while as he comforted me, probably providing for me in that one moment more compassion than my father did in his whole lifetime. Sound familiar, anyone? All that to say, I am so scared, and my medical help is basically confirming that it won't get much worse, but likely will never get much better. I have received more love and more support from you lovely people in the few weeks I've "been" here than years with other friends and even some family. although some have been very supportive. I weep daily in prayer that so many of us are dealing with so much physical and even emotional hurt, and my prayer is that all of you experience abundant joy and peace. You have been such a blessing to me, and I pray that God rewards your compassion and understanding and encouragement with the same in your own trials and challenges. While my health is in some doubt, I consider myself blessed, and I weep with great joy and peace over your friendship. God bless you all.

"She was born for all the wrong reasons but grew up for all the right ones."
Dio ti benedicta! Bacce e tanto affeto, mi sorella e fratello! 'drea