The new year may mean the beginning of a new business for me.

I know I can start it. Resources abound for getting it going. I’m pretty sure I can even get a client or two.

What is holding me back is fear of failure, fear of making a bad decision, fear of hitting a wall.

Intellectually, I know it takes hard work and trial and error to become a success. I already live with the regret of roads not taken for these same sorts of fears. The conflict inside is making me feel sea-sick.

I want to move forward. I think it’s a path I’m supposed to explore. I know the fears that are creeping in are the usual ghosts trying to sabotage my progress. I even know how to name them this time, and yet…

When my dog tries to jump on me, I turn around. I deny her attention and she gets the message quickly. Can I turn my back on these voices–the voices telling me I’ll never have the talent, the voices telling me I’ll never be more than a hack?

No way to know unless I try. And THAT? That is scary.

Dear Failed Wall St. Financial Executives,

We need to talk about your behavior.

There are rules we all live by–rules my three boys must follow in our house. I’m betting your parents enforced them in their homes too.

We didn’t make up these rules so we could find excuses to take away your privileges. We created these rules so that you would grow up to be law-abiding, contributing members of society, so you could make and keep friends and so we could actually take you out of the house without being completely embarrassed.

See the thing is, my children who are still quite young, are having an easier time behaving than you seem to be.

Your lying and inability to make responsible decisions can no longer be tolerated.

Millions of people have lost vast amounts of money over the past few days because of your actions. Bills will go unpaid causing other businesses to suffer. Those about to retire may now be looking at additional years of work when they should be enjoying the plans they had for their money that is now gone. Children will receive fewer presents this coming holiday season. Families will cancel vacations.

Your bad behavior affects not only you but hundreds of millions of people too.

When my kids misbehave they must face the consequences. How am I going to explain to them that when YOU misbehave the consequences aren’t yours to face but theirs?

I haven’t decided yet what your punishment should be. I need time to consider it when I’m not so angry.

In the meantime, you need to go sit in the corner and think about your actions. I’ll call you when I’m ready to talk–in about fifty years.

love,
Mamma