This turned out so well! Huge fan of this cool aunt concept and hotline! Thanks for including my question. You’ve really given me so much encouragement and inspirational to take the bold next step and be more vulnerable.
I'm sure that was not easy to do. I can imagine the stress before and after its release. I think sometimes, though, we just don't give people credit. Most people are not eggs waiting to be broken by the slightest little crack in the shell. People are by nature, usually tougher than we realize. Anyone who's lived very long knows this and if young people freak out, they tend to see it in a different light later on in life. I think it's awesome you shared and as you saw, people did not fall apart. They were even supportive. Usually if there is doubt about something because it requires courage, go with courage. Who respects a coward? Thank you so much for sharing, Alexis.
I've written personal essays for a long time. I've learned to be really careful about not including detail that would create distance between me and people I love and respect.
You really should be proud, that was a terrific piece, and you went about it the right way, with dignity and respect, and heartfelt honesty. I think that's the key. It's so easy for us to tell others not to be afraid of vulnerability and just get the words out there, but we have no idea what the impact on loved ones might be. This is why I keep toying with an anonymous/semi-anonymous separate newsletter (which may or may not feature one Groucho Marks 😉), but in my case, I want to get stuff off my chest but I fear it's in an unhealthy, bitchy way, which is where more risk is involved. So the tone is so important. If it's from the heart and without pettiness and bitterness, I'd hope it would be well received and people would understand and appreciate it.
Thanks, Daniel! Appreciate it. It's true, we really have no idea how people will react, and I was very afraid of how they would, not that my family is evil or anything, but they're more private. I was pleasantly surprised. I'm waiting for Groucho Marks! I think you're right to approach it from the heart, it can be bitchy at times. You're human. ;)
I often wonder if women are more likely to experience imposter syndrome because we've been so societally programmed to be small, submissive, and inferior, until any time we dare to pursue ourselves and our dreams and passions, it's viscerally uncomfortable.
I was just accepted to Archipelacon to do a 45 minute talk on the currenr state of fantasy that also promotes my work. I'm goddamn terrified bc I am good with words, not the talkie-talk. But I'm gonna push through and do it anyway, mostly bc I think I need to.
That’s a good point, and I’m sure it has an impact! I feel you on being good with words but not the talking part. I think I’m the same and have a massive fear of public speaking. I’m not sure if I could push through that fear, you’re inspiring! DO IT! :)
This turned out so well! Huge fan of this cool aunt concept and hotline! Thanks for including my question. You’ve really given me so much encouragement and inspirational to take the bold next step and be more vulnerable.
So glad to hear that! And thanks for your kind words about TCAH concept. Let’s see how it goes! ;)
Don’t ya just love when you are thoroughly supported? I’m so glad the fam applauded you. This piece resonated. 🥰👏
Thank you! I’m glad (and relieved) too! :) And thank you for reading!
Great work .... Every blogger have this same question....
Yes, it’s a tough one! Thank you! 💜
I'm sure that was not easy to do. I can imagine the stress before and after its release. I think sometimes, though, we just don't give people credit. Most people are not eggs waiting to be broken by the slightest little crack in the shell. People are by nature, usually tougher than we realize. Anyone who's lived very long knows this and if young people freak out, they tend to see it in a different light later on in life. I think it's awesome you shared and as you saw, people did not fall apart. They were even supportive. Usually if there is doubt about something because it requires courage, go with courage. Who respects a coward? Thank you so much for sharing, Alexis.
Thanks for your kind words!
I've written personal essays for a long time. I've learned to be really careful about not including detail that would create distance between me and people I love and respect.
That makes sense! I think it also depends on how you add the detail… We all have a right to tell our stories!
You really should be proud, that was a terrific piece, and you went about it the right way, with dignity and respect, and heartfelt honesty. I think that's the key. It's so easy for us to tell others not to be afraid of vulnerability and just get the words out there, but we have no idea what the impact on loved ones might be. This is why I keep toying with an anonymous/semi-anonymous separate newsletter (which may or may not feature one Groucho Marks 😉), but in my case, I want to get stuff off my chest but I fear it's in an unhealthy, bitchy way, which is where more risk is involved. So the tone is so important. If it's from the heart and without pettiness and bitterness, I'd hope it would be well received and people would understand and appreciate it.
Thanks, Daniel! Appreciate it. It's true, we really have no idea how people will react, and I was very afraid of how they would, not that my family is evil or anything, but they're more private. I was pleasantly surprised. I'm waiting for Groucho Marks! I think you're right to approach it from the heart, it can be bitchy at times. You're human. ;)
I often wonder if women are more likely to experience imposter syndrome because we've been so societally programmed to be small, submissive, and inferior, until any time we dare to pursue ourselves and our dreams and passions, it's viscerally uncomfortable.
I was just accepted to Archipelacon to do a 45 minute talk on the currenr state of fantasy that also promotes my work. I'm goddamn terrified bc I am good with words, not the talkie-talk. But I'm gonna push through and do it anyway, mostly bc I think I need to.
That’s a good point, and I’m sure it has an impact! I feel you on being good with words but not the talking part. I think I’m the same and have a massive fear of public speaking. I’m not sure if I could push through that fear, you’re inspiring! DO IT! :)
Still so proud of you! 🥰💜
Thanks, Cassie!