Growing up as the oldest of four children, it was extremely difficult, if not impossible, to get heard or seen as much as I needed. I had to grow up fast in order to help my poor mother with the burdens that raising four children brought her. My childhood was merely a flash.

At the time, I was proud of my advanced maturity. Taking part in adult conversations was something I enjoyed, and I was proud of my ability to do this at such a young age. It all felt so good back then.

Looking back on those years now, I remember how much I wanted to say in those grown-up circles, and how, through no bad intentions on their part, the adults in those circles merely tolerated my 10-year-old ramblings for a few seconds in order to placate my attendance. At 10 years of age, to be listened to by adults for any length of time was all my young ego needed to feel accepted, grown-up, and important. But now I realize those days are the reason today I crave to be heard, and why I very often write articles that are, well, too long. I didn't get heard enough then, so today I want to hold someone's attention for as long as I can.

That's the extent of my little "pity party." I really wanted to impart to you that because of my writing mentor, I have begun to understand why my articles get a bit lengthy. Short and sweet is my new motto, which I am trying to adhere to as much as I can these days. Don't get me wrong, long articles have their place. So do long sentences. But so do short ones. And now that I understand the psychology behind my writing, hopefully, dear and cherished reader, I will bring to you articles that don't require you to make up for the events from my past.