A tale of self-discovery & courage in a complex world — Trigger warning: This post delves into topics of self-discovery, personal challenges, life transitions, and even sexual violence. Some readers might find certain elements emotionally resonant. Please proceed with care if you’re sensitive to these themes. Imagine constantly switching between radio stations, searching for one that’s clear, but always hearing just…

Stalking the lost letters: a memoir of Grandma’s resilient life — My grandmother and the naturalist author Euell Gibbons exchanged letters. This latest revelation came from my mother. “Oh, wow! I would love to see those. We could publish them,” I said to my mom over the phone. “I don’t think I have them,” Mom said. Grandma had kept some personal…

How I navigated the path of recovery to rediscover familial love — It’s been 47 years since that teenage boy from down the street stole away my innocence. I thought I was healed from that old wound, but recent reflections have given me greater clarity. …

From silence to celebration — Trigger Warning: This narrative contains discussions of racism, racial identity, and mentions of racial slurs. It also addresses themes of racial passing, white privilege, and the historical legacy of slavery. This material may be distressing to some readers as it delves into the complexities of biracial identity and systemic discrimination. Lost in My Own Skin …

Journey to healing on a secluded Thai island — Sitting high over an aquamarine bay and surrounded by coconut palms and tropical forest, the rustic Thai house greeted the day from the southeastern edge of The Rock, a tiny island in the Gulf of Thailand. Far, far away from the western world, the Thai island embraces visitors with perfect…

Unmasking childhood sexual violence for societal gain — Trigger Warning: This essay discusses childhood sexual abuse, trauma, and its emotional repercussions. It may be distressing for survivors or anyone sensitive to this topic. Nobody talks about rape or molestation, aside from whispers. It’s often deemed too dark or painful a topic to discuss, even in writing. Yet, if…

A tale of self-discovery and courage in a complex world — Trigger warning: This essay delves into topics of self-discovery, personal challenges, life transitions, and even sexual violence. Some readers might find certain elements emotionally resonant. Please proceed with care if you’re sensitive to these themes. “Frizz!” How else can I describe hair that kinks straight up and points outwards from smoother…