Brought to Tears 😭 by my Fashion Buddy/Twin

On Wednesday, I turned the big 4-0. I spent most of Tuesday night and Wednesday reading everyone’s post and thanking them for all the birthday wishes. It’s been an emotional few days leading up to my 40th and, I received a couple of gifts that you can’t buy.

The first one was Toastmasters related. I sent in my Level 1 for my Path at the Eleventh Hour. This got us to Presidents’ Distinguished honors. Along with Achievers and Monroeville, the success of these clubs helped make our area Select Distinguished.

The second one was the news that my adopted mom’s divorce from her ex husband was final. When I read Paula’s relationship status had changed, I was crying tears of joy. I was so happy for my adopted family Tuesday night. From there, Sara wanted to make plans for us to get together on Saturday. We’re going to have lunch at the Olive Garden and celebrate my birthday.

While eating dinner on Wednesday night at the Jean Bonnet Tavern, I came across a post from Sara that brought me to tears. Here’s what my Coach buddy posted. The pictures were from Rob and Sara’s wedding in May of 2021.

Paula posted a few things as well that brought me to tears. Is it any wonder that they mean everything to me? We cry tears of joy at each other’s posts because we’ve had our struggles.

I worry about people treating me different because I am different. I worry that I’ll be disowned because of my lifestyle. I worry that I’ll be shamed because I carry a bag and dress a little different.

Just like the girl whose parents pushed her away because she wanted to date other girls, I fear (even at age 40) the same thing would happen to me. But it looks like I’m getting support from everyone around me. My church, my colleagues, my Toastmasters family, even my own extended family (aunts and uncles and cousins) is cool with it. It’s just hard because I want everyone to be on board but I understand that some are going to be old school about it.

This is why I have to explain myself sometimes but I know I need to stop apologizing for being me. This is why I’m so thankful for Sara and Paula and others because I feel they accept me. Even my own cousin Olivia loved my bag Wednesday night.

Can’t wait until tomorrow when my family helps me celebrate 40.

Bye everyone. ❤️ you.