I stuttered since I could talk, and quite intensely so. This was back in the 1960s, when there were very few resources for those who stuttered. My parents were so sweet, they did their absolute best. My childhood felt quite tortured by this experience. Kids made fun of me, everyone assumed I was stupid, so I just kept very quiet and listened and observed the world. At about age 14, I hit my limit. I realized that the adult world couldn’t fix me. People tried their best. I decided that I would take matters into my own hands, not even knowing what that meant. My turnaround began When I had the notion that since my biggest fear in life was to speak in public, then I would find a public speaking opportunity and face that fear head on. I have no idea where this idea came from. There was some special student event, and I asked my guidance counselor if I could get on stage and give a brief opening speech. He was completely shocked by my request, but compassionate at the same time. I prepared a speech about people from different nations and religions coming together in peace and understanding. My fear was through the roof. I delivered my speech in front of about 700 students. As I began, I think a part of me left my body. But another part of me showed up. It felt like I was using every cell in my body to not stutter. When I left the stage, I remember students were clapping, and a teacher who was sitting in the first row was crying. I later learned that I had delivered a relatively flawless speech. This began my turn around. My confidence and risk taking grew. I learned more and more how to consciously relax my body as I spoke. By the time I turned 17, my stuttering was about 95% gone. My dream had come true. I could express myself with clarity and ease. I don’t know what causes stuttering for each person. But because of my own experience, I truly believe that this challenge can be transformed. Looking back on it, my stuttering was a great teacher. It was asking me to find my confidence, my self expression, and to learn to regulate all the complex emotions that lived inside of me. I truly hope you find love and success in your journey.