I spent a long time telling myself I wasn’t afraid. Turns out, I was terrified. On Cher, Georgette, rejection, uncertainty, and finally looking fear directly in the eye.

My amygdala has a name. She’s French, dramatic, and prone to putting in overtime. On therapy, old patterns, and learning that I can interrupt the alarm instead of letting it run the show.

I thought I was looking for a dog. Really, I was looking for something to care for, something to anchor me, and a reason to keep choosing life. Then I met Cher.

Before I knew I was running from my feelings, I was getting very good at disappearing. On Dream Life, Edward Cullen, 4 Loko, and the beginnings of escape.