Sunlight

I don't think I've ever been more ready to attend a family gathering as my authentic self. It's taken years to get here and you realize that, after a while, everything coalesces into a harmonious confidence which is finally immune to naysayers. 

The fact that I have only lost one friend speaks volumes about the kind people I have chosen to associate with over the years. Solid people won't disappoint you but the hardest work comes from us as we learn to stop the doubt and self-criticism. 

We don't see ourselves as people see us. 

The best thing I have ever done is to stop hiding and step into the light because concealment feeds into shame and doesn't allow for repair of the psyche. Without the power of sunlight I wouldn't be where I am.