At Capacity

This collection of thought provoking short stories and prose, shared by the author, Jamie Gause, reveals her journey as she uncovers and comes to the realization that after multiple failed jobs, marriages, parenting mistakes, lost friendships, and a life full of trials, she was at capacity-emotionally, mentally, spiritually, and physically. Being honest with herself, instead of hiding behind her smile, she knew that she had been giving everything her full potential and energy-even things and people who did not deserve it-and she was no longer able to take on anymore.

Ms. Gause realizes that her proverbial elevator in this life has multiple floors and at each one, she was "At Capacity" and needed to determine her next steps. She shares her story in hopes that you will recognize when you are at capacity and that it inspires you to take the stairs when you need to. Setting boundaries for your life is necessary and only makes those angry who take advantage of you. Ms. Gause has learned that if she must make them angry to preserve her mental and physical health, so be it.

Ever since I can remember, I have been on the move. Born prematurely, on an army base in Petersburg, VA, I started my life journey. Along the way, my family was stationed in Italy for a couple of years until we moved to Detroit Michigan, the place that I will forever call home.

My family relocated to Cincinnati, Ohio where I have spent most of my life. Graduated from Winton Woods High School, Xavier University, and the University of Phoenix. A mother of three children, 26,20, and 17, I spent my late teenage years and early twenties and thirties raising children, tirelessly serving, loving, and supporting my community, church, family and friends.

I have been an educator and HR practitioner since 2005 in various roles; teacher, Regional VP of HR, etc, consistently devoted to professional and personal development. I received my master's degree, started a doctoral degree program, owned a barbershop, am a member of the greatest sorority on earth, Delta Sigma Theta, and can carry a remarkable tune.

I have always had a love for language, whether it was singing words with a mic in my hand or putting my pin to paper.

Every life I believe has a soundtrack, which tells a story of one's past and present. I wrote this book to tell my story and to encourage myself and others to live out loud, tell their story and sing their song because there is freedom is applauding yourself, being your own biggest fan, and taking center stage of your own life.