Welcome back! I got away from doing updates, but here I am. Informal and honest. Here’s a few things that I’ve been experiencing.
TikTok and General Social Media
I opened the TikTok app today for the first time since the beginning of the year, and it felt so foreign. I spent 10 minutes swiping through content, new and old. I’ve noticed more smaller creators being highlighted, and I thought that was interesting. However, it was mostly popular content, such as this couple that was highlighted at a Coldplay concert. It was then that I realized I had no desire to use it, and I didn’t feel the pressure to continue either. I feel like that was a relief to finally detach from it, even if that means I won’t get the references the people around me quote. I’m glad to have people around who don’t pressure me to use different platforms or make me feel left out for not using them. I’m truly grateful for them. I may use it later, but that’s not what I want or need at this time.
Reading
I started reading a lot more because I was underwhelmed with television and social media in general. I’ve been drawn to a particular genre for a while now, and it’s partially inspired what I’m creating right now. I was resistant to that inspiration because of what it might mean for me. However, I’m learning to allow things to come and explore them rather than rejecting them. Since this has been so persistent, I feel like it’s only right to see where it goes. So, now I’m on a 243-day reading streak, while I haven’t watched a YouTube video or used social media in a few weeks (except for that one instance with TikTok).
The Days Fly By
I sit and watch the sunset some days. Have you ever noticed how fast it sets? One minute it’s on the horizon. Next, it’s no longer visible, hidden beneath the skyline. The only evidence is the indirect colorful hue of its light. That’s when I realized how fast the days pass. We always say time flies. But, witnessing it in real-time is a little jarring.
The Cycle of Life
I encounter people all the time. That’s the cycle of life. Recognizing when you’re in public and seeing people for the first time, and then understanding that it may be the last time you see them. Isn’t that crazy? I don’t know their story or their reality. All I know is that I’ve encountered them in that moment, and I may never see them again.
You May or May Not See Me
I appear in random places at random times. But online, you may not recognize me, but I’ll be around. It may not be where you expected to see me. While physically, I may not be what’s expected, and I’m learning to accept that. I hope that you can too. I’m working through a lot behind the scenes, and it takes a lot of energy most of the time. I’m still learning how to show up and work through fear. Sucks to admit, but that’s what’s happening on top of being in a transition period that I’m still figuring out how to navigate. Let’s say it’s not easy.
That’s all for now.
I’m hoping the next update will be the completion of the project, which is a new experience for me. If you need to reach me, you’ll find me. Until next time.