And the Penny Dropped

It is likely that we all experience denial at some point in our lives but for some, there may be a truth so deep and painful that it takes decades to surface. This is the true story of a woman who finds herself caught up in a strange and beautiful experience; one that forces her to confront and understand her own denial. This is her journey - documented and tweaked over the years for clarity - always truthfully. If you like stories about friendship, travel, strange phenomena, and personal growth, pull up a chair. Oh… and make sure you're good with some silliness too. Please forgive the use of a pen name and blurry cover photo. For a story about facing your truth and being proud of who you are, it feels utterly inappropriate. I want to share this story in case it can help someone like me, but it's not just my story. I want to respect the privacy of my friends and family who are included. I especially do not want to shame anyone who has changed and long been forgiven. Not everyone changes when it comes to this topic, and there were some that had to be left behind so that I could be free of their toxic judgement. But those who did change have my respect and appreciation. I was not the only one who was judging blindly (in my denial). We grew up in a social and religious culture that interfered with what our hearts might have decided without that influence. I hope you understand the choice for anonymity. It is not shame or fear. I'm living a proud and happy life now. I hope you are too.