Sticks and Stones by Angie Skelhorn

Author and ceremonialist Maria Naakai Ts'ilsoose Yraceburu (Quero Apache) life's story gave me the courage to step forward. Well, that and my mom has always said the truth can't hurt you. The author's beliefs are equal to mine. We believe we are responsible for the choices we make for ourselves and we have a responsibility to the future.

My past personal choices led me to become associated with the Outlaw Motorcycle gang and an addiction to cocaine and painkillers. I sold and abused the powerful chemicals. I was known to use more brawn than brains. Yeah, little old me.

There came a time when my Spirit couldn't live in my own skin. A few times my Spirit nearly escaped. I've slipped into my old ways more times than I care to remember. I was lucky I was never arrested. My darkest moments brought me to the light.

Not so long ago I was rudely reminded of who I used to be. I truly appreciate my true friends who jumped to my defense, but some of things I have chosen to do will always stick to me. The person stood superior as he loosely excused me of still using my drugs of choice. My response was quick, "Why would I want to go backwards and surround myself with incompatible friends and a non-supportive partner."

I'm sure the intent of the accusation was to hurt me or put me in my place. Whatever the reason, the remark reminded me how far I've come. It wasn't easy for me to become the person I am today. My past is a part of me, not all of me. My mistakes don't define me. My experiences good or bad helped me discover my own heart. I can't change what I've done. I can only choose how to react; either improve or change myself for better or worse. I refuse to go back to my old defeatist ways and lose sight of what is important to me.

My present is a product of my past and my future is an effect of my present.

No one has the right to judge another, but people will say what they will. Everyone has opinions about who you are, and what you should be doing. When judgments are made, people hear you say that you are above or better.

I am always right - self righteousness

My friends are always right - blind opinion

My values are better than yours -judgmental

I can tell you every detail why I am right - discrimination

I have matured throughout the process of dealing with my personal choices. I can't control what people decide to say to me or about me. I can only choose the value of their words.

Sticks and stones can break my bones

Words can break my heart or make me stronger

There will always be someone waiting to knock you down when you are trying to stand up straight. We all do things we are not proud of; growth is when you don't do them any more.

Freedom from judgment - to experience liberation

May I suggest you break free from the crowd. Fly solo, harm none intentionally, and become that which you want to attract.

If you too feel you are being judged harshly, wipe the slate clean and start again. Plunge head and heart into the unknown. During this journey you may find like-minded people, who will accept you for who you have become. I know I have.

Angie Skelhorn's website- http://witchskel.weebly.com