Why is my life full of so many strong-willed, outspoken, viciously blunt women who treat me ill? Am I seen as clay that requires forceful kneading, swift cuts, and a raging flame to overcome? Perhaps Im initially percieved as having some great potential to only offended them greatly by not living up to their expectations as if Ive deviced a vicious rous to deceive them, and they must strike back. Why couldnt I receive warm, passionate, empathetic instruction? Ive always enjoyed that and I florish under those conditions. Perhaps thats why military training was not overwhelmingly difficult for me. It was something I elected to do and knew what consequences were to be expected. Being taunted about my lack of intellect was never expected by a grandparent, mentor, or coworker. Im not saying I dislike women as a whole or that my experience might have been different without women. It’s simply coincidence and Im just disappointed in the rolemodels Ive been given. Dont get me wrong, I define myself by more than those moments, no matter how extended or deep they may have cut, in my life. But, I cannot get past how a part of who I am today is because ive had to Rise above my Bullies instead of growing toward my aspirations. Im afraid I’ll pass on those attributes of abuse to those close to me, and if the choices Ive made up to this point are truly for my own self fulfillment.