Family Reunion
Writing Gas Money has allowed me to exorcise many demons from the past. Putting it on paper erased many negative feelings. I have gained a better understanding and appreciation of my parents’ lives. They were just people trying to do the best that they could. Sometimes they failed, but more often, they prevailed. They certainly bettered my life by instilling a thirst for knowledge and a curious mind, and for that, I am forever grateful. It just took me 50 years to realize that!
My dad is gone, but I still have my mom. She and I have become much closer over the past 10-15 years. I attribute that to me becoming a little wiser and more understanding. Mumma softened as she got older, and for that, I am REALLY thankful. The relationship between my sister and I has also become more amicable since I published the book. Much of my story is her story, and I think that me sharing our story has allowed her to express herself without uttering a word.
I would love to hear others' thoughts on how your familial relationships improved after you gained better perspective.