Some of my favorite people are going to Burning Man for their first time this year. They're hosting a fundraiser this Saturday - you are invited, and I hope to see you there!

**https://www.facebook.com/events/288061247043421/**

I can't say enough about the positive impact these people and this community have had on my life. I remember when I first started attending the group's meditation nights, hosted by Alvin Yao-Wen Cheung, a few years ago - on one hand, I immediately knew that I really liked the people and the vibe; on the other hand, I still struggled with a lot of social anxiety and depression. Some days I would show up and barely talk to anyone. Some days I would be overwhelmed by negative emotions, and during the post-meditation sharing time I would talk about my feelings and internal chaos, sometimes sharing with relative strangers. Nobody had answers for me, and that was fine; it was still incredibly valuable to have the chance to be my awkward and depressed self in a social setting and have it be totally ok. In fact, people were happy for me to be sharing my truth. I've never had a clue how to "fake it", and for the first time in my life I didn't have to.

I recently got feedback from a couple close friends remarking on how much I've grown in the few years they've known me. While it's true that I've put in a lot of my own work along the way, I have to give credit to the environment that has allowed me to thrive. As I've gradually cleared the clouds of depression and anxiety, I'm finding that I have the opportunity to figure out who I am and who I want to be, all with the love and support of my friends. That sense of safety to be my full self, even when I'm still figuring myself out, has been so powerful. In particular, I've discovered that I really enjoy giving massage! Maybe the most exciting thing about my own growth is that I'm getting to a place where I'm stable and confident enough to meaningfully show up for and support the people in my life.

All that to say, I think this community is great, and if you're interested in exploring what they have to offer, I encourage you to come out for the fundraiser on Saturday. There will be pretty lights in a huge tent, sound baths with gongs and singing bowls, a chill/cuddle space, and lots of wonderful people (myself included), all at a really cool venue.

If you feel deterred by the ticket price, DM me and I'll split it with you. If you feel intimidated by the dress code on the event (like I do), then ignore it and wear whatever you feel comfortable in (like I will).