Wherein I step outside my comfort zone
I just got back from the first thing I’ve ever really indulged in that was good for my brain health: the American Humanist Association’s 82nd Annual Conference (and my first annual conference). When I announced that I was flying to attend a humanist conference, a few of you asked what a humanist is.
Never fear. I got video interviews with three humanists who answered that question! I’ll edit for clarity and post here in the next couple of days. What happened during the conference surprised me. I am a serious introvert. I do not generally open up to other humans. I’m guarded, jaded, and stoic.
Yet, I managed to step outside my usual paradigms during the conference. To the point that I think I made a few long-term connections that I hope will be something I have a hard time making: friends. I have a hard time trusting, but I found that some of the humanists I met earned my trust almost instantly.
That’s a big deal.
Above, meet Sarah, a trans woman I interviewed during the conference. Sarah and I both lived in the same central Florida county (at different times). I will post my interview with her and explore our separate but similar journeys.
I’ve been on this planet for 52 years and have always felt like I belonged on another planet. That was different when I stepped outside my comfort zone and went to see if I had a tribe. I do.
Humanists, by and large, are my tribe.
I want to matter in ways that grow me and others, and now I know I am not alone. We are all human, and we should value that and make it sacred.
I am looking forward to hearing more about your experience Pen, and your interview with Sarah. ❤️
I cannot wait to watch the interview with Sarah.
I'm in awe of her courage and humanity in agreeing to be interviewed during such a traumatic time for the trans community.
Finding your tribe is a powerful moment in a dark and troubled country. Congratulations on pushing past your comfort zone to find new pathways of connection.