Snowballs. They start small but if you roll them around in more snow or down a hill, they get larger and larger, building upon what they already had. I’ve experienced this as I continue to grow as my true self. This power is amazing and weird. I was always pretty quiet and maybe reserved. I never put myself out there or invited attention. First time I wore a new pair of shoes as Dawn, I was terrified. I thought everyone was staring at me and judging me.

Whether it’s just WTF, I’ve changed inside, or something else, I don’t even blink anymore about being myself in public. Whether it’s a tank top and pretty necklace or capris and a sweater top, I put it on and go out. Makeup is my everyday armor and I don’t hide that I’m accentuating my inner beauty with lipstick, eyeliner, eye shadow, mascara or perfume.

It used to be terrifying and now I’m just me. For others on the same journey, all I can say is just keep going, keep trying to be yourself. Maybe it’s the confidence that shines through. I get looks from some folks but other people don’t even care or notice. I know it’s not the same for everyone or everywhere, even for me. But I’ve been very lucky at just the right moment to help me grow.