Hope

Two stacked electronic keyboards on a wooden shelf against a red brick wall, with ship models and books on the shelves nearby.

Though my parents hadn’t encouraged me in the pursuit of my dreams, my friend showed that he believed in me, and that sometimes we may need to pivot.

(1,436 words)

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Music concert, hands raised in the shape of the heart.

Remember the artist, band, writer, poet, actor, or comedian who touched your heart, brightened your day, helped you through a rough patch, altered your view of the world or how you saw yourself? Remember that artist who affected you so much that it changed your life?

(392 words)

[continue]. . .

Woman in a nice dress, sitting on a chair in an empty cement walled room.

I see myself in the story of a beautifully unique woman who never quite fits the mold of societal expectations, and the beast who holds her captive within the near impeneterable walls of an enchanted castle.

[continue]. . .

Intersex symbol on a watercolor PRIDE flag.

When we marginalize someone, we marginalize everyone like them, and in doing so, create hardships for others who do not fit perceived standards and, in some cases, negatively affect even those who do.

(4,568 words)

[continue]. . .