Post #1: Before Reading

By definition, alcoholism is an addiction to the consumption of alcoholic liquor or the mental illness and compulsive behavior resulting from alcohol dependency. It is not only hard on the drunk's health, but it also takes its toll on his/her family as well. Trust me, I know from experience. The Glass Castle is a memoir told by a girl named Jeannette Walls who grew up with a father who drank and an irresponsible mother. I chose to read this book because I've heard many stories about terrible fathers who drink and mothers who are too afraid to walk away with the children. Many of my friends live(d) through this and so do I. That's why I want to hear Jeannette's story. Because the more stories I hear and the more failing families I see, the more it inspires me not to be like those families. It drives me to be a better person and to not let people (especially men) manipulate me, because I want to be a good parent.

In addition, hearing about people who go through similar things in life creates a special bond between those people because they can relate, understand, and sympathize with each other. Humans as a species like to be understood and cared about. That's why most people share their heartbreaking stories: so other humans will feel sorry for them and want to help forming friendship. Others, like Jeanette Walls, tell their tales in order to help those who feel similar pain feel less alone.

This song is one of my favorites and I was listening to it while proofreading and I realized it fits the concept of two people exchanging their bad expirences to help each other feel better and less alone. I personally can relate to the song which is one reason why I love it so much.

I look forward to reading Wall's memoir and learning about her life. I also admire her for raising above her family's issues to not only become successful, but to have the bravery to write the book.