So, today is a special day. Why? 13 years ago today I graduated from high school and 3 years ago today I officially came out as ace and on the arospec during Pride 30. I was surrounded by loving people at Pride; total strangers hugged me and shrouded me in love. I then came out to friends and started acting true to myself. It was a freeing day.
I’m grateful that it still continues to be freeing, although there are still some difficulties. After what happened on 7 November 2013, I still fear it at times, but I embrace those fears and I do protect myself too.
Me in 2018, after the Pride parade ended.
I was going to write a gratitude rap, almost like what Melissa VillaSenor did on Saturday night. However, I didn’t get a chance to and I might work on it on Sunday. I’m grateful Pride is going smoothly so far. I missed my Synagogue’s Pride Shabbat last Friday, but they continue to hold Pride events (online). I am grateful that my Synagogue welcomes LGBTQIA+ families and that the one Rabbi is allowed to be one as a Lesbian. It’s beautiful when a religion is so welcoming.
I’m grateful that Pulse is going to me a landmark that is memorialized and I’m grateful that Pride is slowly getting back again. I’m glad that celebrations are still online.
We had nasty storms last night and it was cloudy this morning. I went out for a walk at 5:30 AM and while I didn’t see the full ring of fire because of clouds and trees, I was able to see the lighting. So beautiful and I’m grateful for the experience.
I’m also grateful for friends and family. What are you grateful for today?
The Happiness Box Project 
Hi, Jessica Marie!
I never knew anyone who pays as much attention to anniversary dates. You have grown tremendously in the 13 years since leaving high school, and you have also grown since coming out three years ago. I admire your Synagogue for holding Pride events throughout the month and for welcoming people of all orientations. Yessum, we are in a period of transition, testing the waters as we remove our COVID masks and once again dare to gather in groups. Let us hope this works out and we can indeed return to normal without any setbacks.
You are lucky to be getting storms. We’re bone dry here in Central Florida. The lawns are parched and brown. We have a sprinkler system, but already have a high water bill due to Mrs. Shady’s ambitious garden watering.
On blazing hot days like today, I am thankful to have a comfortable home with air conditioning knowing there are many people less fortunate.
Enjoy the rest of your week, dear friend JM!
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