I need to apologize for this shorter-than-usual post. You’ve come to expect a story from my life that ties into each book I review on Perfect Picture Book Friday. This Friday post comes without a review and without a story. Something has happened, and I have debated whether or not to stay quiet or to share. After writing and deleting this post countless times, part of me needs to open up to you.
We’ve all read books or heard reports on the news about children being bullied and have felt helpless and sickened. Bullies take others down to feel stronger from the pain they enjoy inflicting. It’s challenging to fathom what it must be like to be on the receiving end of their cruel accusations or the target of their slander. We desperately hope and pray our children never experience this feeling. Recently, my emotions have been pulled to their limits because I have become the target of someone I once considered a friend.
My husband and daughter are the glue that holds me together. And staying focused on writing and editing my picture book manuscripts provides the ideal escape and medicine for my heart. I need to take time to heal, and when I’m ready, I’ll begin sharing my stories with you again as well as the beautiful picture books they tie into.
I wish each and every one of you a journey with as few bumps as possible, friends and family who love and support you, someone to hug, and peace.
Leslie
Leslie Leibhardt Goodman 
So sorry that you have to go through this. Take time to heal. xo
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Thank you, Darlene, I’ll never understand why some people feel the need to bully others. If they could get a taste of their own medicine, this world would be sweeter. Thank you for being here for me.
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If any can do it; it is you.
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I wish we could get together right about now, I could use one of your wonderful hugs.
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I am so sorry to hear this. Sending you light and peace!
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Thank you, Cathy. I’m in dire need of both of your thoughtful gifts.
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I’m so sorry, Leslie. PM me if you want to chat.
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Beth, that’s so sweet of you. I need to take a little time to process through my anger, but then I will PM you. Thank you.
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We are never too young or old to feel the sting of a bully. I am so sorry and send you love and healing. Thank you for sharing and I hope you soon find peace within.
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I wish I could make the lie told about me disappear, and more than that, I wish some of my family members weren’t buying into the lie out of fear of being the next victim. This has torn into me so deeply. Thank you so much, Patricia, for your kind words.
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Leslie,
So sorry to hear that you are going through such a difficult time right now. Remember that the devil is the father of all lies. And the truth will set you free. God knows your heart and he will help you through the pain. Sending you love and virtual hugs and prayers of comfort your way.
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Thank you, Christie, I’ll keep your uplifting words, hugs, and prayers close to me.
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So sorry for whatever you’re having to go through, Leslie! Love and hugs ❤
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I’m so tired of the emotional lows from this. I wish I would wake up and find this is only a bad dream. Thank you so much for your love and hugs, I appreciate this so much.
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So very sorry Leslie!
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Thank you, Cheryl. I’m absolutely numb from this. I still don’t know how or why this family member could ever think, say, or spread such a horrific lie about me. I’m grateful for this incredible writing community and for friends like you. 🙂
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Leslie, I am so very sorry this is happening. Please know that the Fantasic Five are more then merely CP, we’re friends & writing “family.” We are here if you need/want to vent. We are not just about the MSs. I’m here if you ever need a virtual hug or a skype share of tea or stronger. HUGS!
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Thank you, Maria. I wanted to say something to our group. As a writer, sharing what is happening to me should be easy to put into words, but the words won’t come because I’m in such disbelief and shock over the accusation. I need friends around me so much now. I appreciate your offer for a skype share, but every time I say what I’m being accused of, I cry. Thank you for the hugs.
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I’m so, so sorry to learn of this happening to you, Leslie. May you find peace & strength in your family & the many fellow kidlit writers & reviewers responding here today.
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Thank you, Patricia. My husband and daughter have been so supportive. And I’m grateful for the love that’s come my way from this kidlit community. Getting through the anger to find peace isn’t easy. My mind keeps replaying the vicious lie again and again like a needle stuck on an old record. Thank you for your wishes for peace and strength.
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Yes, we often think of schoolyard bullies, but adult bullies hurt just as badly. At least with a kid, there’s the opportunity for maturity and change. With adult bullies, the chances of either are slimmer. Best advice: Remove yourself from toxic situations.
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Thank you, Julianna. I wish I could remove myself from this situation, but the bully is a relative. On the good side, I might not be able to choose the members of my family, but I definitely can choose my friends. I’m glad you visited my blog.
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