What makes you different makes you special.

More than ever, we are learning not only to accept our differences, but to celebrate them. As society becomes increasingly accepting of characteristics that were previously considered outside the norm -- newsflash: we're all different! Different is normal! -- we do still have a way to go before discrimination based on the idea of "difference" is a thing of the past.

With this in mind, I was heartened by this short review and endorsement of Becoming Marlo on Facebook by Brampton Hearing Aid Services of Brampton, Ontario.

Admittedly, I wasn't necessarily thinking about confronting the idea of  "difference" when I wrote Becoming Marlo -- at least, not consciously. Once the story was written, I realized just how much Marlo was like me. Not because I've sprouted clown hair or a big red clown nose (I haven't). Being different doesn't necessarily mean looking or acting different. It can be a feeling, too... a feeling of not fitting in or belonging... of searching for your place in the world.

It made me realize that everyone will take from Becoming Marlo something that uniquely relates to their own personal story. Whether you're struggling with being or feeling different, dealing with loss, or searching for your identity, Marlo can relate. He's been there, too.

My sincerest thanks to Brampton Hearing Aid Services for the endorsement!