Hello AP2,

It's great meeting you through your excellent About Me story. Of all the themes that run through this piece, the thing that stands out is, "Honesty hurts, to begin with, but in the long run, it will set you free."

Good for the deputy headmaster who encouraged you to be honest and had faith in you, the flying instructors who believed in your abilities and helped you overcome fear and the English teacher who helped you believe in yourself.

I'm happy that after all the struggles you've been through and continue to go through, you have a lovely family and are doing work you love. You had the courage to ask for help to get back on track, and now your life is going in a very positive direction.

I'm sure you're a wonderful dad and a great role model to your children. The way you write is honest, vulnerable and positive, which shows great strength of character.

Even though we've only just met, I feel so proud of you for publishing a book - that is a fantastic achievement, and you must feel extremely proud! What's the title of the book? Did you use your own illustrations? It's one of my dreams to publish a children's storybook.

I look forward to getting to know you and reading your work, and I wish you much success with your writing and life. Take care.