Ms. Understood

Alex: I’m trying really hard to turn my frustration, and hurt, into motivation. I think that’s the only thing you can do when you’re feeling these emotions. I sent my dad and stepmom a copy of my script (they always nag me for not having anything done) so I was excited to hear what they had to say when a 55 page script arrived at their front door. The excitement was short lived. When he called to congratulate me, and let me know he received my script,  he also told me, “I probably won’t read it word for word.” REALLY!? I mean, come on. Can you at least pretend you’re going to read it? It took every ounce of strength in my body not to shout at him. I spent so many hours working on it and he couldn’t even take thirty minutes to read his daughter’s script? That’s when I realized how different we are. I know he loves me, but he’s not supportive of my dream. He doesn’t care what job I have, as long as it’s a job. I’ve never felt more alone. I feel so misunderstood by my family. Did your parents support your choice to become a writer?
Nik: Sorry bug. I can’t imagine how hard that must be. I was lucky to have a mom who fully backed my creative efforts so I haven’t been in your position. I do have a few thoughts though. First, I think you’re right to use it as motivation. It’s easy to let people’s opinions stop you in your tracks and make you question yourself and become fearful, but it can also be a huge motivator if you let it. I also think it’s important to understand that they’re just looking out for their little girl. There’s nothing easy about getting into TV writing and it isn’t a stable career. On some level, I’m sure their lack of enthusiasm is more or less concern for your well-being and your future. You can’t be mad at them for that. You just have to hear them out and try to understand why they feel the way they do and then surround yourself in LA with like-minded people who will keep you on track and help motivate and inspire you. I think too many people die without ever having lived their passion or fully realizing their God-given talent and potential. And I think that’s a damn shame. Good for you for believing in yourself enough to pursue your dream and not let fear or self-doubt (or that of others) keep you from it. Can you imagine growing old and always wondering ‘what if’? I can’t and that’s why I chased my dream until I caught up to it and tackled it to the ground making it my reality. And you know what? There isn’t one single day that I wake up and dread going to work. I freaking love it. I love it so much that when I’m not on a job, I’m at home writing for free. To me, that’s happiness. That’s what living should be. Now, release it and write your Emmy/Golden Globe/Academy Award acceptance speech and thank your parents for keeping the fire under your ass nice and hot.
Alex: Holy shit, Nik. I have goosebumps. Thank you.

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