Actually Visible

Yes, I wrote the book for other people to read it. In fact, I had other LGBTQ+ teachers at the forefront of my mind when I was writing the whole thing, hoping that the story could serve not only as a way to connect us and our possibly (probably) traumatic experiences but also to show other people how “normal” we actually are.

…but, goodness, spending all of those years in the closet has done a number on my discomfort with the spotlight. I tried to make light of it in a video I posted on TikTok and Instagram, but the truth is that I’m losing sleep over the possibility that someone connected to my school will get their hands on my book and then…what? Try to fire me for writing fiction? It is fiction. While I share some qualities with the main characters, the events in the novel are completely made up.

You want to know what has honestly been the only thing that’s made me feel better? Rereading my own damn book. 😂 I know that sounds corny, but listening to Josie’s experience actually calmed me.

For now. The worry comes in waves. But my bigger goals will be worth it in the end.