Being Unapologetically You

Do you ever feel like you just don’t fit in with your family, friends or coworkers?

In a world often defined by norms and expectations, embracing your unique qualities can be a challenging and transformative journey towards self-love and authenticity. I recall the times when I worried about being different, labeled a "woowoo mom" for my avid interest in tarot cards and Ouija boards. When we got divorced, we shared custody two weeks and two weeks, absolutely unheard of then. The fear of standing out, being different especially as a parent, haunted me.

I vividly remember moments and still hesitate sometimes to express my fascination with metaphysics or past lives fearing judgment and rejection. In the dating world when I mentioned I was studying energy healing some men declared, "You're one of a kind,” and quickly ran for the hills. ?It isn’t always easy navigating a path less taken.

However, over time, I learned that my unique qualities, out of the box thinking were not shortcomings but rather the threads that wove the tapestry of my authentic self. Embracing my unconventional interests in drumming during covid or going to dance therapy, wearing purple glitter nail polish or big bold glitzy jewelry became a celebration of my individuality. I discovered that the very qualities I once worried would embarrass my kids were actually the essence of what made our family joyful. We all take delight watching my two granddaughters singing, drumming, dancing around the house.

The journey toward self-acceptance is a profound odyssey, liberating and scary at times. It involves shedding the cloak of societal expectations and embracing the full spectrum of your being. Now, I revel in the richness of my unique qualities, finding joy and beauty in every quirk and nuance that makes me, well, me. ?As I navigated this expedition, I discovered Dazzling Diva Rae, became a solo world traveler, a radio show host for motivational radio in New Zealand, sang Itsy Bitsy Spider on stage in a Billy Holiday style and I can’t sing. I embraced my creative problem-solving skills and became a leader in the community and the non-profit organization I support.

The lesson learned is this: authenticity acts as a magnetic force. ?By fully embracing my unique interests and qualities, I've attracted like-minded individuals into my life who appreciate and celebrate glitter and glitz alongside me. This shared celebration has magnified my work in the world and the impact of our collective endeavors, creating A Day of Healing, infusing it with a unique vibrancy that sets it apart.

So, to anyone grappling with the fear of being different, remember that your uniqueness is your strength. Embrace the aspects that set you apart, for they are the colors that paint the canvas of your individuality. ?In a world that often craves conformity, stand proudly as a testament to the beauty of being authentically, wonderfully, and unapologetically you.