It began with handcuffs. December 20th, 2021. A day that shattered my world, leaving me reeling in disbelief and humiliation. Falsely accused, publicly arrested, my life as I knew it imploded. The shockwaves reverberated, costing me my job just weeks later.

But even in the depths of despair, a spark of defiance ignited. I would not be silenced. I would not be defined by this injustice.

A new chapter unfolded on May 2nd, 2022, with the promise of a dream job. Hope flickered, a lifeline in the darkness. Yet, the weight of the false accusation continued to cast a long shadow, a constant reminder of the battle still ahead.

May 2024 brought an unexpected encounter. A stranger, a garden of roses, a shared understanding that transcended words. He, too, carried burdens, his peace hard-won, a mirror to my own journey.

The end of May delivered a long-awaited victory. "Case dismissed." The words echoed, a bittersweet symphony of relief and lingering anger. The fight had been long, the scars deep.

Just as I began to rebuild, another blow struck. June 11th, 2024. Wrongfully terminated. Betrayed. The anger raged, a fiery storm threatening to consume me.

But amidst the chaos, a new strength emerged. September 10th, 2024. Grant's Lounge. The spotlight. My voice, amplified, defiant, "Case dismissed, motherfuckers!" A cathartic release, a reclamation of my narrative.

And then, a touch of magic. September 29th, 2024. The unlocked gate. A place of mystery, a portal to the past, a symbol of closure and healing. A gift bestowed upon me, a moment of profound peace and understanding.

The path towards healing continued, intertwined with the complexities of human connection. October brought a rift with the stranger, a misunderstanding that strained our newfound bond. The sadness lingered, a reminder of the delicate nature of human connection.

December arrived, a month of reflection and reconciliation. On the 19th, an apology to my aunt, long overdue, a step towards mending fractured family ties. But healing is not always linear. The 24th brought disappointment, the sting of rejection, a reminder that forgiveness takes time.

Driven by a need to reconnect, I sought out the stranger on the 23rd, my heart heavy with worry. Then, on the 26th, the news came – my friend was sick. His daughter's voice, filled with concern, ignited a fierce determination within me. I would be there for him, a steadfast presence in his time of need.

And from the depths of the earth, the cicada emerged. Boldly Authentic Arts LLC was born, a testament to transformation, a symbol of resilience, a voice rising from the depths of struggle.

This was my 2024, a year of profound change, a crucible that forged a stronger, more authentic me. But the journey doesn't end here. 2025 is the year for soaring, for spreading my wings and embracing the vast expanse of possibilities that lie ahead.

A heartfelt shout-out to my incredible support system and behind the scenes crew: Kendall my freaking rock, Meatloaf my ride or die, Cat & Fico, Doug & Leslie: I can never say thank you enough. Your unwavering belief in me, your love, and your encouragement have been the wind beneath my wings. Without you, this flight would not be possible.

And as the year draws to a close, one final serendipitous encounter: the owner of my 1927 bungalow, an English teacher, offering her expertise, her willingness to help me refine my story, to give voice to the cicada's song.

To Mrs. Alice, Bill, and Cousin Vinny in New York: All strangers who I now call friends. Individuals I met because of a common love, respect, and appreciation. I met these amazing people at the cemetery. Your love and support have echoed across the miles, a constant reminder that love and friendship can be formed and found anywhere.

To my readers: This is my truth, my story. It's a testament to the power of the human spirit, the resilience of the heart, and the unwavering pursuit of peace. Join me on this journey, and together, let's create a world where authenticity reigns supreme.

Boldly Authentic Arts LLC needs your support. Help me amplify my voice, share my story, and inspire others to embrace their truth. Together, we can make a difference.