Thanks for being so honest about your own experience, Rebecca, and the inner guides who help you gain perspective. I can't think of anyone who doesn't have an inner critic. If they don't, they may not have an inner life at all.

This morning, I saw a terrific profile of the actor James Cromwell, who was nominated for an Oscar as the farmer in the 1995 film "Babe." The last line of the film has become iconic, and Cromwell did it in one take. His face is beatific with love as he speaks the line, "That's enough, Babe. That's enough."

During today's profile on CBS Sunday Morning, he said his father--like your mother--had been critical of him all his life. Cromwell's father was a famous movie director blacklisted during the McCarthy years. So his criticism really affected the boy growing up.

Normally, when you look into a camera, you see your own image. But during that scene Cromwell saw his father's face staring back at him, telling him he'd done a good job.

There was no way he could have faked the look on his face during that incredible Oscar-nominated take. His own face became liberated through the power of love and self-acceptance. Which is exactly what you're talking about here.

And we all felt it while watching that movie. Just as we feel it here in your wonderful story.

Thanks so much for writing it.