While my father and my older brothers were involved in the day's complicated politics, I was consumed with my passion for the violin. While studying with the finest musical professors at the world-famous Conservatory of Music in Paris, I wrote my first symphony at the age of 13 and was labeled... Learn More

I was 11 years old the first time I even heard mention of a violin, My older brother Siqui wrote home that he had decided to play the violin as a hobby while studying at the university in Paris. (My father was a scholar and believed the French schools were far superior... Learn More

Under arrest and incarcerated in a cell is terrifying and undignified. It was THE worst night of my life. I’d always been a good girl, but I’d well and truly messed up, again. Life had declined, and my ex-husband and ex-friends continued to rub my nose in matters. Enter an unfortunate decision... Learn More

Depression is something one can never truly understand unless you have experienced it first-hand. It’s like your soul is detached from your body, and you’re drifting from one day to the next. I felt a failure, but I wanted to be the old Vicki again. I wondered if she’d ever come back... Learn More

When your mind shatters, you’re no longer in control. Dark thoughts linger and hammer your head, demanding you deserve to be punished. I wanted out of my woeful life, and pills would end my troubles for good. Only, I realized too late that I’d made another terrible decision. Doctors hooked me up,... Learn More

I was reeling from my divorce and dissolved friendships. He was a millionaire with an offer I couldn’t refuse—a spectacular trip to the Caribbean business class. My parents said it was a bad idea. I said: “I’m a grown woman. I can make my own decisions.” They were right. Before long, the... Learn More

Loneliness messes with your mind and shatters your heart. Enter Fatboy42 with his wit and charm. I was naïve, mistook his flirting for friendship. I’m surprisingly dumb when it comes to men and their intentions. The compliments flowed; my heartfelt revived. I made a regrettable mistake, one that will haunt me forever.... Learn More

God, he was so handsome, kind, and gentle; he took my breath away. Suddenly we were this attractive, educated married couple with successful careers, and two beautiful children. Years passed. His business success grew; his travel became frequent. My career stumbled, and my insecurities ran rampant. Why did he always travel... Learn More

I used to play beachball with Gramps on the beach during the British summers. He was my mentor, the guardian of my values, my emotional rock. He loved me without reservation, which always made me feel like Queen for a Day. I was his little angel and thought I would be forever.... Learn More

Hang on a minute, the idea of the book wasn’t mine. It was my friend Matt’s. We met about 10 years ago at a heart-healthy support group. After everybody spoke, he said, “Why are you here, buddy.” I told him it was none of his business. He kept pulling my chain. Finally,... Learn More