The Final Stretch

YUWHO!! I am on the final stretch to graduation. Today began my final semester in my quest for a bachelor's degree. To think where I was just 8 years ago and how far I have come, it amazes even me. Here's the thing I know that if I can do it, if I can come this far in this short of time...literally anyone can accomplish what I have.
I am not stronger, or smarter, or more determined than anyone. I have no more self-confidence or motivation than anyone. The only difference between me and those who have not done it, is I decided to. That's it, I made a decision to go back to school and try to build not only a better life but a different life. Today in one of my classes the instructor said "If you don't like anyone, it's because you don't like yourself." That resonated with me because I really believe that, however I take it one step farther...if you like yourself you stop caring what others think and they then find you likable. I have found that someone who tries tirelessly to please others and gain acceptance is seen as needy and annoying. When you truly like who you are others just follow suit without you putting any effort into it.
Now don't get me wrong the little girl inside of me that was abandoned, neglected and abused physically and emotionally, still lives on and she at times impedes my thinking that others opinions are all that matter, she must be liked. I know she is there and I have tried to find it in my heart to allow her to come out in small doses, mostly in hopes that she will eventually grow to the woman that I have become.
Ok I got off subject...so I am graduating in 15 1/2 weeks YEPEE! And I think I just may know what I want to be when (more like if) I grow up. I want to be involved in helping prisoners reconstruct their lives. I want to travel to prisons across the nation and show them that it is possible to be an ex con and a productive member of society. I want to teach them that through education they too can have a better life and stay on this side of the fence. I want to be a beacon of light in a dark and dingy hole.
Look out world here I come!!!
As always thanks for stopping by and perusing the babbling of a girl.