I loved all of this. I also plan what I'm going to say, although often inappropriate stuff just blurts itself out anyway, and I replay/extend conversations in my head long after they're over. When I hit my 40's I decided it was time to just let my freak flag fly, as it were, and there's so much less stress on the day-to-day. :)
What a beautiful essay. I have worn masks in my life too, different ones for different pains. I think we grow and evolve our whole lives. In my seventies now, I'm still growing up -- and I love that. To have been the student of a voracious reader, book writing cat loving English teacher must have been a highlight for your classes. And that you would model courage and being true to one's self -- just exquisite. Thanks you for your piercing and profound words, Rebecca.
Beautiful and brave! Thank you, Rebecca!
I loved all of this. I also plan what I'm going to say, although often inappropriate stuff just blurts itself out anyway, and I replay/extend conversations in my head long after they're over. When I hit my 40's I decided it was time to just let my freak flag fly, as it were, and there's so much less stress on the day-to-day. :)
This is an amazing essay!
What a beautiful essay. I have worn masks in my life too, different ones for different pains. I think we grow and evolve our whole lives. In my seventies now, I'm still growing up -- and I love that. To have been the student of a voracious reader, book writing cat loving English teacher must have been a highlight for your classes. And that you would model courage and being true to one's self -- just exquisite. Thanks you for your piercing and profound words, Rebecca.
Rebecca, this is stunning. And sad and joyful.
I have a different mask, one that like you, I am only recently recognizing and removing. It is wild and glorious and terrifying.