The talented Rose Vettleson – the blogger behind the beautiful site, “Of All The Things I’ve Ever Dreamed” honored me with a review of “Surviving Sue” this week:
The most significant takeaway from this book is – Inspiration! Inspiration is in the title. I found this book inspirational for many reasons, one in particular was feeling a connection to another human whose childhood held complex family issues, yet she resiliently survived and thrived. I have great admiration for Vicki’s accomplishments and who she has become.
I’ve seen many reviews for Vicki’s book. At first, I was apprehensive about reading it because I wasn’t sure I was prepared for the sadness it may include. However, in a podcast I heard Vicki say, ‘your story is unique, but your pain is not’. And I became very intrigued to learn more about someone who would make such a profound statement.
Rose uses a beloved Elisabeth Kubler-Ross quote on her “About Me” page and it’s one of my all-time favorites. I believe it’s true. Beautiful people do not just happen and learning that this quote also inspires Rose made me smile:
“The most beautiful people we have known are those who have known defeat, known suffering, known struggle, known loss, and have found their way out of the depths. These persons have an appreciation, a sensitivity, and an understanding of life that fills them with compassion, gentleness, and a deep loving concern. Beautiful people do not just happen.” ~ Elisabeth Kubler-Ross
Rose’s review is compelling. I love how she made meaning and drew analogous threads into her heart about building strength and resiliency. The fact that she wrote about my book and the insights she gained in the process humbled me beyond measure:
I’d highly recommend Vicki’s book to anyone – but particularly to those who have gone through a similar experience. There is so much to learn here – how to observe, how to survive, how to not fall into the pit of despair when all seems to be against you, don’t assume adults or people in authority know everything, don’t take others’ behaviors personally when most likely they’re dealing with their own baggage, be true to yourself and do your best to be a good person, learn to do better… I could list so many lessons.
Most lives contain something that needs to be addressed. Put words to your concerns, and learn how to handle them. This is a good way to begin overcoming whatever is in your path.
I feel fortunate to have read Vicki’s book and am honored to have found her through blogging. She brings much heart and joy to the world, and we desperately need more of that right now.
When I set out to write “Surviving Sue” my focus was on intergenerational healing and the power of heartfelt storytelling to inspire and encourage others to be bold and courageous in examining their lives. But the task of writing and disclosing is arduous to say the least. Those moments where we want to recoil, assume that our pain is singular and unique might push us away from writing. Whether the intent is to share or simply write for the wellness benefits, the compulsion to pull back is strong.
But Rose? What she offered in her review is striking in that she demonstrated the power of building community through disclosure. I could not be more grateful to her. I stand in awe.
Thank you, Rose!
Vicki 💝
The podcast Rose referenced in her review: Episode 102: Writer’s Lessons with Melanie McGauran – The Heart of the Matter
Hi – I’m Victoria, Vicki, Dr. Vicki. I hold a doctorate in Adult Education and I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), and author of Surviving Sue | Eckhartz Press.
Check out this link to learn more about my book “Surviving Sue” – all about resilience and love.
Click here for Sharing the Heart of the Matter podcasts. Listen and subscribe. Thank you! Click here for videos of our podcasts.
Victoria Ponders 
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