I have to remind myself constantly to be brave and persevere, so your words are really very helpful.

I hope so! I didn't mean to come off as a gloomy pessimist (or worse - what's the phrase? "Pity ditty." *lol*)

My best friend Kendra, who is nearly half my age but we understand each other completely - money issues, family, illness, the whole ball of wax - has persevered despite everything and she's now got at least three published novels under her belt with another one forthcoming. I am absolutely in awe of her and she reminds me of what someone can do if they try hard enough. (One thing she's done is learned how to use Facebook like a pro to promote herself.)