I was trapped in a prison of my own making and I had no idea how to get out.

Tormented, dizzy, breathless, hands tingling, mouth exceedingly dry, and extremely self-conscious. Like mama never leaving the toddler’s pacifier at home, I always had my water bottle and Altoids. Melting the potent mints in my mouth seemed to open my constricted airways and serve as a mind-distraction.

I lived in a constant state of anxiety with a desire to run, and could not escape the cloud of debilitating shame.

Fear manifested intensely . . . (To continue reading my #PREAPPROVED story as I guest-post over at Jennifer Lees’ blog ) . . . and then pick up a copy of her book Love Idol here.