This week

Lots of things happened this week. 

Besides meeting Cecile on Wednesday, on Thursday I met Angela for coffee. She is leaving the company after 18 years. In her early 40's, she feels it's time to move especially since she will be able to work a hybrid week where part of the work is done at home and is getting a substantial increase in pay. 

Angela is one of the first people I came out to at work at least a decade ago. 

The same day I had lunch with Daniel who lives in Barcelona and works mostly with the London office. He is also in his early 40's and is challenged with his work life balance and told me he is seeing a therapist for it. 

Life is much faster than when I was their age. Both are very happy for me. 

I also texted with Danielle who is preparing for her August wedding. She and David have been tremendously supportive and we joked about having our dresses ready. She said she was looking forward to seeing me on the dance floor. 

My friend Sylvie has kindly offered to drive me to the wedding on August 2nd which is so appreciated since it is at the west end of the city. 

Next week I have lunch with a friend I have known for almost 40 years who is aware of my gender situation. He is yet another person I will not lose. 

The cleanup continues one day at a time as I settle into my new life outside of career and obligation. It's not an obvious adaptation but it gets better as you go along. 

There is nowhere to run but you no longer need or want to.