How do you see yourself differently now than you did 10 years ago?

I'm not just a single mother struggling daily.  I've achieved great peace.  My wealth is in people, not things.  I have so much more confidence in my ability to survive heartache after heartache.  I've forgiven myself; I’ve forgiven them.   I am much more flexible, and I understand and appreciate those years I lived in the New York desert, also known to me as the 'Arm Pit of the World'. I laugh now more than I ever thought possible.  I actually did become a Master Gardener.  I've given up some bad habits.  And to quote President Bush Sr. when asked what was his greatest accomplishment:  "My children still all come home".  So, too, all my children have come home.  Also, ten years ago I would have never believed that I would weigh this much or have a face and hands this old; and what the heck happened to my neck?!

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

If I'm not published in some way in ten years, then the world has lost the chance to hear a great, inspiring story and I've spent too much of my time gardening...BUT I just might have a business so well established that my children will work with me... AND I'll be able to travel and speak, giving inspiration and hope to others... AND I will be making Bob that great crab soup for the thousandth time... AND I will see that all those prayers I've prayed for my loved ones were not in vain... AND all those times I helped others were not wasted...OR....I might just be walking in The Garden with Jesus. 

You are amazing, Susan, and you will survive so much!  You'll have five incredible children, so you made the right decision not to have that abortion at the age of seventeen.  The pain may seem unbearable at times, but every tear will make you stronger.  Leave the house for Maryland six hours earlier when you get the call that your father is in the hospital.  Do everything you can to bring your daughter Vanessa back home.  Pray more - starting now.  Don't forget to play with your children - they grow up so fast - and be prepared when they break your heart. Forgive sooner than later.  You are not going to do everything right, but you sure will try. Above all else, you will find that you gain an incredible faith in God and such an amazing depth of compassion for others.  I love you...