there was a time, not so long ago, when my validation was coming from things outside myself. to be honest, i would break into hives (red itchy patches on my arms, chest and face), start to sweat (it wasn't a sparkle..at all), and my legs would twitch and shake (so annoying!) just at the thought of someone i loved or even liked, leaving me or being discontent with me, (my job, teaching yoga, a family member, a friend, a lover).