As an author, I find it difficult to share deep feelings and thoughts—unless they come from my characters. I write about downtrodden people, social outcasts, marginalized communities, and those isolated by their differences. The things that make them fascinating are why they are outcasts in the first place.

You Are Enough

It's easy for me to dig into the emotions of my characters and let them express who they are. To say, "You are enough" and mean it. But, like many writers, I allow them to stand for me. I let them tell the stories I'm too timid to share myself. It's easy to let a fictional character take the heat for being different. But for me? Hard. Frightening, even. All my life I've been a peacemaker—smoothing things over, explaining why others did this or that.

But "peace at any price" is not peace at all. It's compliance.

Actually talking about myself and how I feel daunting. In a world that feels divided, I want to take a moment to celebrate being different. You are enough. Each of us offers something unique. Our backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives shape who we are and how we interact with the world. I want to remind you—and myself—that you are enough. Really.

In the current political climate, it's hard not to feel a sense of urgency. We're bombarded with messages that seek to categorize us, to pit one group against another. But what if we take a step back? Instead of allowing the opinions of others to define us, what if we choose to embrace our differences and recognize the strength we bring to our communities?

Diversity is not a buzzword; it's a vital part of our human experience. It enriches our lives, broadens our horizons, and fosters creativity.

When we surround ourselves with people from different walks of life, we open ourselves to new ideas and new ways of thinking. Our different approaches to situations foster innovation and progress. It's what makes our stories richer and more real.

Right now, it's easy to lose heart. The daunting political landscape makes us wonder if the noise drowns out our voices. But our voices do matter. Our stories matter. We inspire change when we refuse to allow the pressures of the world to conceal who and what we are. But you are enough.

Our society pushes us to conform to someone else's standards. It's crucial to recognize that no one-size-fits-all can define success or beauty or worth. We don't need to fit into a mold to be worthy of love and respect.

When we embrace our quirks, passions, and individuality, we celebrate the very things that make each of us unique. When we stand up and say, "You are enough," to others, it sends a powerful message.

I've seen firsthand how influential we can be when we uplift one another. Other authors are not my competition—they are my allies. I can't write books so fast that someone will be able to read only my work for the rest of their lives. When I celebrate the differences and strengths of other authors, I enrich not only them but also myself and my readers.

It's the same in life. When we celebrate our differences rather than shy away from them, we create an environment where everyone feels valued. This is especially important for those who may feel like outsiders in their own communities. If you've ever felt like you didn't belong, you are not alone. There are countless others who share our feelings, and together, we can create a sense of belonging for all.

Let's commit to allying with one another and supporting those who may be struggling to find their voice or place in the world. Kindness is a powerful tool; it can bridge divides and foster understanding.

In my journey as an author, I've learned that storytelling connects with others in a profound way. Our stories transcend barriers and resonate with people from all walks of life. When we share our triumphs and struggles, and everything in between, we not only validate our own experiences but also create space for others to share theirs.

To everyone reading this: You are worthy of love, respect, and acceptance just as you are. Truly, you are enough. Imagine a community where everyone feels seen and heard.

If I sound like some privileged white chick who doesn't have a clue, here's a bit about me. I grew up in poverty. As a child, I lived in a car for a year. My dad went from town to town, seeking work. I attended as many as five different schools in one year. While Daddy worked, my mom and my little sister and I waited in the car. No playing outside—just entertaining myself and reading any books I could get my hands on. Once, my sister and I had only a few pieces of hard candy for dinner because my mom found a dime on the sidewalk. My parents ate nothing that night. As a young adult, I joined the Navy so I could get a job. Thankfully, my veterans benefits are now what's keeping me alive. I have serious health issues. I don't take my life for granted.

I believe it's our differences that make us stronger. In the past, I've hesitated to speak up, because I feared losing what tenuous ground I'd managed to achieve. But I can't keep silent any longer. If others cease following me, then that means they weren't on my team in the first place. It's okay. I am enough.

As I prepare to share this message across my platforms—my blog, Facebook, Instagram, and Bluesky—I invite you to join me. Share your stories, uplift others, and remind them that they are enough. Together, imagine the ripple effect of positivity and acceptance we can create. One that reaches far beyond our individual circles.

I'm not going to wonder if someone will save me. The only one who's going to save me is the version of myself who's sick and tired of being sick and tired. It's okay. I am enough.

Hold on. It feels like night, but I swear to you, in the cycle of the world, morning is coming. And like me, until then, you are enough.