ABSTRACT
This chapter traces multiple pathways through the crossroads. The story begins when participants see the dilemmas inherent in backing away from barriers, a realization that comes with entering the crossroads phase of the journey. Kelly’s story highlights the intrapersonal dimension of the crossroads in the tension between expressing her internal voice and her colleagues not giving her the credit she felt was due her. For some participants, the crossroads was primarily about defining one’s relationships with others and the tension between what others wanted versus what they wanted. For some participants, the epistemological dimension took the forefront as they entered the crossroads. Near the end of the journey through the crossroads, participants felt an increased confidence and sense of direction, even if they had not yet acted on it. Having a sense of direction is the path out of the crossroads and into internal self-authorship.
