As the preparations for the upcoming Expo shift up a gear or two, I’m starting to feel very anxious and overwhelmed. Much like the final moments before an exam or an interview. This is it. Me on display. Have I done enough to prepare? What am I not thinking of? How badly is this going to go?

But just like those moments before an interview, I remind myself that the interview is a chance to get to know each another. At least enough for our intuition to give a gut signal. I’m not in trouble, I’m not being yelled at, and I am not justifying my existence. There is no need to be on the defensive.

When I remember this key bit of information, I nail interviews! So, maybe the expo is just another scenario like that. It’s a chance to meet others where we can share about our passions. An opportunity to connect, even if it’s just for a moment.

I’m going to promise myself that all throughout that weekend I will have the courage to be myself. Bright hair, bubbly, introverted, and shy with a deep passion for BL, art, and a great story!