This is very, very touching, I missed it the first time around. When you talked of the feathers in your hair, it reminds me of my daughter, always doing the same because she wants straight hair.

I can't imagine doing this to a child; it makes me want to cry, first with sadness at such unnecessary emotional cruelty, then with joy at how strong the experience has made you, and the wonderful art that springs forth from a mind forged in the midst of such adversity.

Thank you for sharing. X

Cg