Thread by @geekgalgroks

I don't like this framing.

Life isn't just pulling yourself up by the bootstraps.

https://twitter.com/chadloder/status/1109863365726265344

I got where I am by a bunch of really awesome people who saw someone who needed to go somewhere bigger.

They saved me. They put in the skills so I could escape all my situations.

I had an abusive childhood. I grew up in poverty. I fought for what I have.

All because I had people who fought for me.

My cousin Melody showed me that you could be a completely girly science nerd. It was okay to be smart.

My preschool teacher taught me how to read because I loved books.

The librarians taught me how to reflect on my reading and challenged me to read more difficult books.

My third grade teacher taught me it is okay to dance and celebrate small wins.

My fourth grade teacher taught me the scientific method and how to do experiments. (Who knew writing it down was key?)

My grandfather and uncles taught me how to fish, garden, cook, and fix things.

I was given permission to explore.

In middle school my advisor challenged me on reading. The science teacher took me fishing and to appointments. My English teacher gave me harder things to read.

They all sponsored me. They all put information and skills into me.

It took until a few months ago for me to really realize it.

It is hard when you realize why nothing feels like home is because everyone is preparing you to leave because you can't stay.

It is like an adventure quest, "Here take this skill and knowledge, you may need it for where you are going. I have never been there, but I have done my best to prepare you."

Who knew that the princess I was saving was me?