Every year when September rolls around I prepare myself for the most intense months of my cyclical depression. Still exploring the roots of trauma it stems from after all these years but it usually lasts until mid January and its a doozy. Every year I'm a little bit more prepared with more tools for resilience. But every year I'm still crawling out of it depleted and wrecked. This year it feels different. I've maintained a smile behind the heaviness. Even though shit is harder than it ever was and I'm as tired as I have ever been, I am closer to my core sense of purpose. And that has helped me find balance. I am rooted and grounded. I am lonelier but more free. And I am kinder and more gentler with myself than years before. I got two more months to get thru this and I don't wanna jinx it too much, but I can finally see a little light at the end of the tunnel and I know this is enough to keep me going and to rely on the universe and my ancestors to get me thru this. Thank you to all the folks (you know who you are) who've helped me find bouts of joy in this trying year, who have reminded me of who I am, and reflected back to me who I could be. I am forever grateful. Also thank you to my therapist 😁 Thank you @_mediumraw for these powerful shots at the ferry building and @mey.saechao for styling me.. stepping into my power and embracing all that is to come. 🥰