Trauma lingers, shaping both mind and body. It’s not just about what a person experiences, but how deeply they feel it. Those emotions don’t disappear; they stay hidden, affecting life in unseen ways. Healing requires effort, warmth, and time. While trauma changes a person, it’s possible to grow beyond it with the right support. Happiness, like healing, doesn’t just happen—you have to actively work for it.

There was a time in my life where I had very few connections of my own, but each one was too strange to explain. I remember the anxiety creeping in…was I the only one surrounded by such weird and dark people? Why couldn’t I just sit down with normal humans, share a conversation, and feel like I understood them, or more importantly, that they understood me? On the surface, nothing about my situation was particularly surreal, but my overactive brain (how many stories should I share) twisted it into something far more complex…too many emotions, too much mental static for me to handle. That’s what I learned from reading Haruki Murakami, that magical realism isn’t just confined to novels but to real life!

In my journey with neurodivergence, I’ve found solace in the intricate details others often overlook. Despite the challenges, my ‘different’ brain has gifted me with a profound ability to see beyond the surface, finding beauty in the unexpected and joy in the everyday moments that light up my unique perspective on life.

As someone who’s wrestled with the pain and monotony of exercise, I’ve discovered a deeper rhythm beneath the surface. It’s not just about building muscle or looking good—it’s about tuning your mind and body like a jazz ensemble. This journey isn’t easy, but in those moments when pain gives way to peace, you realize it’s worth every drop of sweat.