We Got This!
{ Jai Santora - President of Central MA Trans Visibility }
roads, contemplating which path to take. It’s a familiar feeling that many of us experience at different points in our lives. These moments of decision-making can be crucial, as they often shape our future and lead us down new paths. Lately, I have made significant decisions and bold moves that were not easy and had major consequences. It takes courage to step out of our comfort zones and take risks, but these bold moves can also bring about growth and new opportunities.
After years of hesitation, playing it safe, and fearing the unknown, I took the plunge and found peace on the other side. I realized that life is a cycle of fear, and anxiety, followed by peace and reward. It’s important to acknowledge that fear and anxiety are natural emotions that come with facing uncertainties. However, it’s also essential to recognize that these feelings can lead to growth and self-discovery. Finding moments of peace and clarity after the chaos of decision-making can be incredibly empowering.
Approaching soon is my favorite season, fall, especially in New England where its known for its beautiful leaves, pumpkins, cooler weather, and Halloween/Samhain festivities. Fall is a season of change and transformation, both in nature and in our lives. The vibrant colors of the leaves and the crispness in the air serve as a reminder of the beauty in transition and letting go of what no longer serves us.
It’s a welcome change after the busy summer and Pride celebrations in Worcester. The transition from the lively summer season to the more introspective fall period can be a time for reflection and renewal. It’s important to find a balance between the
outward expressions of joy and celebration, like Pride events, and the quieter, more contemplative moments that fall brings.
Organizations in the city work tirelessly all year to host various activities. The dedication and hard work of these organizations contribute to the vibrancy and diversity of the community. The two-week long Pride celebrations are intense but incredibly rewarding. These events serve as a reminder of the importance of inclusivity, acceptance, and celebration of diversity.
As fall approaches, things calm down, schools reopen, and we can all relax with a deep breath of fresh air. It’s a time of the year that reminds me of life’s natural ebb and flow. Just as nature goes through cycles of growth, change, and rest, so do our lives. Embracing these natural rhythms can help us find peace and acceptance amid life’s ups and downs.
It’s easy to get caught up in the chaos of life and the world. In light of the approaching election, it’s natural to feel uneasy about what lies ahead. Our ongoing struggle for equality has been marked by numerous challenges, but we have always found a way to persevere. It’s crucial to keep in mind that regardless of the outcome, we will navigate through this just as we have overcome trials in the past. Nature in the fall teaches us to realign, center ourselves, and let go of summer’s excitement. Taking cues from nature can help us find inner balance and harmony, even amid external chaos.
This message applies to all life phases, including my transition. Despite feeling hopeless at times, I’ve persevered through challenges and uncertainties. Despite my initial belief that transitioning at a later stage in life would be an impossibility, I find myself here, having successfully made the transition. There was a time when I was convinced that I would never be able to navigate life independently. The thought of losing my wife, family, and friends was overwhelming - I couldn’t fathom how I would recover from such a loss. I desperately clung to the hope that I wouldn’t have to face the reality of losing people I relied on, but unfortunately, it happened. Nevertheless, against all odds, I find myself not just surviving, but thriving. Acknowledging and accepting our emotions, even the difficult ones, is an important part of the journey toward growth and self-realization.
Fear often clouds our judgment when making life-changing decisions, causing anxiety about the future. It’s natural to feel apprehensive when faced with major life choices, but it’s important not to let fear dictate our decisions. Making decisions like changing careers involves weighing various factors but remember, life goes on regardless of the choice made. Resilience grows from overcoming challenges and mistakes, shaping us into stronger individuals. Each decision we make, whether right or wrong, contributes to our growth and resilience.
Regrets often stem from missed opportunities rather than wrong decisions. Embracing authenticity may bring fears and consequences, but these are temporary. Life continues, seasons change, and embracing authenticity leads to self-discovery and growth. It’s important to trust in yourself, take chances, and acknowledge your inner strength to overcome obstacles. Embracing who we truly are and making choices aligned with our values can lead to a more fulfilling and authentic life journey. Decisions are not always easily made. The path forward is not always clear. But remember these words from Rumi~” As you start to walk out on the way, the way appears!” No matter what path you find yourself on in life just remember…. We got this!