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Shawn Fink's avatar

Love this! I have a similar story … except my bio fled 1000 miles to avoid child support and never returned and my stepdad was just like your bio dad. I have a lot of work to do around my voice now at age 51. I’ve regressed. Mostly because I’ve avoided saying what needs said.

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Jessica Neighbor's avatar

Ah, your Dad was a “flee bag”. Finding our voices is such a process, isn’t it?

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Shawn Fink's avatar

Ha. Never heard that phrase but it's perfect. He also died in 2017 but I didn't find out until 2022.

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Jessica Neighbor's avatar

Oof, that’s so hard. I worry about being out of the loop as well.

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Flesché's avatar

Whoa! This rocked me...in a good way. Writing about your challenges reminds me of mine. Thank you for your vulnerability!

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Jessica Neighbor's avatar

Thanks, Flesché! I do feel vulnerable sharing this, but lighter as well. I hope it helps you say the hard things (or not).

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Mary Austin (she/her)'s avatar

Oh wow! I love how you’ve changed your childhood hurts into your superpower as a coach.

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Jessica Neighbor's avatar

Thank you, Mary! Turning lemons into lemonade is a beautiful thing. 🍋🧃

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