Of course I relate to so many layers of this, and I was getting ready to plunk down all the things I was envisioning going spectacularly for you -- and then I kept reading this piece and saw that you're already doing that yourself. So I'll just say that I'm holding a big ball of sunbeam radiance, ease and goodness for you. Earn out that advance x10. Soft blankets, good lighting, a generous couch for reading for hours ... every sensory goodness placed easily in your lap.
I also couldn't help but think as I've been reading the galley you sent me, how much of you — the real inner you — is coming through in the richness of detail and thought that you pour into your writing. I don't see how people reading this book won't want to push doors open for you because the way you lasso the written word is just so rich and reflect the best of what neurodiverse minds can bring the world when they're given the time, space and confidence to do so. Anyways, I'm cheering you on and so glad to know you're holding the goodness waiting for you on the horizon.
I love hearing all of this. Especially what you wrote about my book. I truly did hand myself over to the book, so it's validating to hear that you actually feel that, even when it's not about me. Grateful for you, Amanda <3.
I couldn’t sleep and somehow I ended up here. I don’t know anything about you except for these words above, but your life feels like a long ride, even if you make it sound like a glimpse of memory. So many layers of emotion, built on top of worries and success, almost collapsing, but maybe not.
Sometimes what looks like an unstable tower, held together by hope, isn’t actually unstable at all. Maybe the next book will have the same flavour of distress in the background, but I realise now that the real struggle is the comparison game. We’re playing against each other but what we maybe want is try to play for ourselves.
I know I’m guilty of comparing too. I’ve noticed that when I keep competing with myself or others, I’m drawn to copy what worked for them, thinking it will work for me too. But it doesn’t. That trap of “do this like everyone but also stand out” pulls us away from our own voice.
The truth is, you’re already worthy. You were worth it when you escaped; you’ll always be worth it. Until we practice self-compassion and untangle ourselves from the productivity/conformity machine, we won’t be able to work, or rest, without distress. Despite who we might want to blame, life comes and goes in waves, but somehow it finds its own equilibrium.
I appreciate how much vulnerability you’ve shared. This deserves more than just a quick clap. Keep going, and if you need a break, take it, without shame or guilt.
Of course I relate to so many layers of this, and I was getting ready to plunk down all the things I was envisioning going spectacularly for you -- and then I kept reading this piece and saw that you're already doing that yourself. So I'll just say that I'm holding a big ball of sunbeam radiance, ease and goodness for you. Earn out that advance x10. Soft blankets, good lighting, a generous couch for reading for hours ... every sensory goodness placed easily in your lap.
I also couldn't help but think as I've been reading the galley you sent me, how much of you — the real inner you — is coming through in the richness of detail and thought that you pour into your writing. I don't see how people reading this book won't want to push doors open for you because the way you lasso the written word is just so rich and reflect the best of what neurodiverse minds can bring the world when they're given the time, space and confidence to do so. Anyways, I'm cheering you on and so glad to know you're holding the goodness waiting for you on the horizon.
I love hearing all of this. Especially what you wrote about my book. I truly did hand myself over to the book, so it's validating to hear that you actually feel that, even when it's not about me. Grateful for you, Amanda <3.
Rooting for you!! So excited to receive and read your book!
thank you so much Ariel!!! ❤️❤️❤️
I couldn’t sleep and somehow I ended up here. I don’t know anything about you except for these words above, but your life feels like a long ride, even if you make it sound like a glimpse of memory. So many layers of emotion, built on top of worries and success, almost collapsing, but maybe not.
Sometimes what looks like an unstable tower, held together by hope, isn’t actually unstable at all. Maybe the next book will have the same flavour of distress in the background, but I realise now that the real struggle is the comparison game. We’re playing against each other but what we maybe want is try to play for ourselves.
I know I’m guilty of comparing too. I’ve noticed that when I keep competing with myself or others, I’m drawn to copy what worked for them, thinking it will work for me too. But it doesn’t. That trap of “do this like everyone but also stand out” pulls us away from our own voice.
The truth is, you’re already worthy. You were worth it when you escaped; you’ll always be worth it. Until we practice self-compassion and untangle ourselves from the productivity/conformity machine, we won’t be able to work, or rest, without distress. Despite who we might want to blame, life comes and goes in waves, but somehow it finds its own equilibrium.
I appreciate how much vulnerability you’ve shared. This deserves more than just a quick clap. Keep going, and if you need a break, take it, without shame or guilt.
Cheering for you, River. And keep asking us for what you need as you make connections or need certain connections!
Thank you so much, Caitlin!!