It has been possible for me to maintain enough confidence and boldness to do the right thing and to occasionally be surprised when people let me know that what I've just said (or written) is funny. I did suffer financially for a while: For almost a year, I managed to feed, clothe and provide shelter for three children, but I myself had only one pair of shoes with holes in them and no toothbrush. What sticks to me is a profound sympathy for folks who are struggling.