In The Beginning
Yesterday, a close friend issued me a challenge: to step out of my comfort zone throughout the month of November. With the dawn of November 1st, our challenge officially began. In truth, I jumped the gun a bit by initiating the challenge yesterday. So, what exactly is this uncomfortable task I've undertaken? It's the challenge of emerging from the shadows and sharing my story. This isn't something I've only been avoiding since my return from prison; it's a narrative I've kept concealed throughout my entire life.
Over time, people have urged me to reveal my story and share my journey, but until now, I've questioned its significance. Imposter syndrome has sometimes plagued me, making me doubt whether my story truly matters. However, I've accepted the challenge, and for the entire month of November, my friend and I are pushing each other to accomplish something extraordinary. I'm committed to my end of the bargain, which involves daily posts.
One of the initial obstacles I faced was determining where to start. My story is vast, complex, filled with twists and turns. I was at a loss, so I decided to begin at the very beginning: my early days as a young girl, practically a baby, growing up in rural eastern North Carolina. I aim to reveal not only my personal history but also my family background.
This morning, as I delved into this process, I revisited old photographs, attempting to craft a narrative that is both straightforward and rich in content, enabling others to truly comprehend my journey from the outset. It's intriguing to gaze into the eyes of my younger self; it stirred a whirlwind of emotions, bringing forth tears as well as joy.
Looking at these images, I noticed that I hadn't taken many solo pictures. Each photo tells a unique story, carrying with it the emotions I felt in that moment. Some photos brought immense joy, a sense of accomplishment and achievement, while others evoked deep sadness, carrying with them grief, loss, disappointment, anger, and frustration.
Each emotion under the sun seemed to surface as I pored over these images, but it's essential for me to share my story, beginning here as I re-enter the world as a renewed version of myself, rising like a Phoenix from the ashes. I aim to share a tale of re-entry, resilience, perseverance, joy, love, peace, FREEDOM.
Thank you for coming along on this journey with me. As I begin this challenge and set out to share my story, I invite you to come along with me. Together, we'll explore the chapters of my life, from the early days in rural eastern North Carolina to the person I've become today. Stay tuned and join me as I unveil the tapestry of my experiences and the lessons they've brought. Come along with me as I tell my story.
