I have to confess something- I had to google you to find out who you were and what songs I had heard from you but didn’t know who sang them. Yes I know- I’m old and terribly uncool! You know what though, I’m really glad that this letter was the first introduction to the artist behind the songs I’ve just listened to.

It made me see that you deeply care about your music and the message you are putting out into the world. That’s why the haters are able to hit home every time. The things we are ambiguous about or create for its own sake, we are able to shrug off more easily.

I loved your article—I’m not famous in the least; but your suggestions ring true for everyone.

I’m a pre-school teacher and sometimes on the receiving end of criticism, hurtful notes and tirades from parents. It can really sting when you care deeply, and have invested so much time and effort, only to have it thrown back in your face.

It’s taken a lot of years and wisdom to recognise that many of these remarks come from a place of fear and insecurity. In my younger days, I would lash out and it only made things worse, never better. So I developed my own strategy — I write out my anger — clash out on the keyboard for all its worth. Then I read what I have written and delete! It helps get rid of that anger ‘cos let’s face it, although the saying goes ‘the best action for anger is delay’ -it’s damn hard to stop the churning inside your gut!

Once I recognised that, although the comments were directed at me but actually said more about the person making them than about me; I was able to remove my emotions and respond with care and humour. Every single time, the person reacted back positively.

You are already wise, and humble beyond your years and have grasped some very crucial survival tactics, many of which, took me years to assimilate. This will play a huge role in maintaining that which makes you a very gifted artist.

I look forward to your next post, and to now listening avidly to your music!