@veryspider,
Thanks for giving it a read! It was tough to decide which info to include, and which not to.
I think the essence comes from raw honesty, and the ability to relate to others on many different levels. We sometimes fail to realize that our lives can and will change in the blink of an eye.
Four years ago, if you had told me that I would be homeless within 6 months, I would have laughed in your face. Anyone, and I mean everyone would scoff at that.
We often can't imagine something happening to us it until it happens, but I'm nonetheless grateful to have these experiences if it means I can be a better person, or reach out and help someone else who faces similar challenges, or even tell my story as preventative action or therapy.
Thank you for your thoughtful reply!