It was when it dawned on me that I don't look at situations the same as I did when I was seventeen. All it took was one comment from a friend expressing how, "That would totally not have been your reaction then...". There it was, the proverbial light bulb. It took time, it was a process that (Thank God) I actually didn't notice happening. I think that's precisely way I managed it. I was already moved out of my parents' home, I was finally having the privilege of growing up. With my own space, I could grow.
Anne Frank's quote has its truth: "All children must look after their own upbringing. Parents can only give good advice or put them on the right paths, but the final forming of a person's character lies in their own hands."

I have many, but today it is Eleanor Roosevelt with, "Never let anyone without the power to say yes, tell you no."

Absolutely. Your ambitions in life should include the smarts to realize when someone is just holding you back. Surround yourself with the people who have the power to help you on your way. Be smart enough to accept it.
As intelligent, self-sufficient and enviable some of these self-made people are, there ARE others who helped them get there. Use and value those "yes" people. Use the naysayers as fuel for the fire & refuse discouragement. After all, we are shaped by the people we choose to have in our life.

The part where people always express concern for me having married so young. The reason is always, "Well, people change a lot." Well, people change a lot from their thirties & forties, too. I don't really buy into the idea that age buys you wisdom or patience. Its just having the right attitude, a willingness, and someone who makes it worth it. And you can't be afraid. It confuses me; how many people have given up someone/something they loved because they were too afraid of the future to take it?