I was watching a news story about publishing sensation, Beth Reekles, the youngest author ever signed by Random House. It all happened for her because of the 20,000,000 reads from the wattpad community! Here's the link for anyone needing a little inspiration to keep writing! http://www.today.com/books/teenage-romance-blooms-kissing-booth-1C9259199

I grew up Catholic, an altar boy, and got through school without really thinking I'd ever be a writer. Then, I met Sandra, Sherri, and Andrea. From Sandra I learned to live each day as if it was my last. Sherri taught me that it was all right to bend if not break the rules once in awhile. Andrea escaped a troubled home in Canada and made her way to the Midwest where I met her at a concert. Her boyfriend, the lead singer of the band, asked me to help her if I could.

She was having terrifying panic attacks related to flashbacks of the abuse suffered during childhood. Also, apparently completely different personalities were coming out and taking over her body for periods of time. The local rock star couldn't handle what was happening. What I went through with Andrea during the next three years was the reason I began to write--it was a story that had to be told, if only so that I could process and come to terms with the experience. That book, The Gatekeeper, is now available on LULU.com! Once I started writing, I was not about to stop. 

I didn't read much growing up, so when I started writing seriously I knew I had to also start reading seriously. Every writer, though, seems to find their own unique voice and style which is a good thing. About the idea of becoming successful, I'm learning to value most of all the sheer joy of writing, and now, thanks to Wattpad, the delight of meeting others with a passion for reading and writing and experiencing their reactions and styles. Thank You Wattpad!!

The Teacher is a project I hope many will enjoy and be inspired by, and you can pick up a print version on LULU.com.