Recently, Cynthia wrote an article that re-spoke two of my favorite quotes:
Your need for acceptance can make you invisible in this world.
Don’t let anything stand in the way of the light that shines through this form.
Risk being seen in all of your glory - Jim Carry
I absolutely love that quote and it has supported me in learning how to live it as best, and as often as I am able to every day.
The second is:
And “I am only one, but still, I am one. I cannot do everything, but I can do something.
And because I cannot do everything, I will not refuse to do the something that I can do.” - Edward Everette Hale
Many of us imagine that our role on this planet is of little to no consequence to anyone. We have decided that to truly “matter” we must accomplish great things and be in the news headlines, or seen the world over on big screens; we imagine, “who am I to think I can make a difference on the world?” Nothing is further from the truth my friends, who you are matters more than you may know. Simply being you, may be saving the lives of people you don’t even know.
You can read more of Cynthia’s work here: https://transgenderheaven.com/members/skippy1965/ under the articles tab; its worth the read I assure you.
Now allow me to introduce Stan, a Walmart greeter at one of our local locations of the big box store.
When I first met Stan I was wearing a cowboy hat, boots, jeans, and a Garth Brooks western shirt. That was a few years ago now obviously. He works two jobs, by choice, is in his 70’s age-wise and just loves being around and people sharing stories.
He has always been friendly, never shied away from me as I entered the store and always has always had kind things to say to me. Never once has he even glanced at me in any way that could be misconstrued. In fact, Stan has introduced me to a few of the other folks who he is chatting with as I pass by.
Stan is being the change he wants to see in the world.
He is modeling acceptance of others, friendship with everyone, kindness and even supportiveness to those who may need it most, like me.
Stan would ask me how I am doing and would listen as I spoke asking further questions; "how is the process going for you? What has it been like?" He shares this information with others I am sure because he shares what others have told him about their adventures with me from time to time.
Having this one 'safe person' in a very public place has helped me immensely to shift from feeling deeply ashamed of being transgender and immobilized with fear to even risk being seen authentically in public, to regaining my self-confidence and esteem. You might be someone's Stan.
I knew Stan would be just inside those big doors and would greet me with a smile and friendly, accepting conversation. This helped me muster the courage and inner strength to be more authentic, overcome decades of deeply rooted fears and imagined horrors of being more, well, me.
I have told Stan how much I appreciate him, and several others who have shown me kindness, acceptance and support as this adventure continues. And I thank each of you who continue to “be the change” and fulfill your role on this planet of being exactly who you are!
Being seen being you, is a role that will change the world dear souls, so in whatever way you are safely able, be seen, be kind and share your stories. The life you save may be closer to you than you know.
You matter, believe it!
Thank you for reading Your Weekly Reset and thank you for being exactly who you are!
Namasté
n huggles
Char