SCARS launch was lovely!

The launch tonight was fantastic! I had such a wonderful time. People were wonderful, and celebrative, and just…lovely. I went from nervous (and a bit scared, especially of the public speaking) to excited and happy, seeing all the friendly faces come in, hearing the kind and lovely things people said. It felt so good that people celebrated with me! And really heard the things I had to say about self-harm. Really listened and cared.

And, even though I was nervous giving the speech on self-harm, so many people told me that I spoke really well that I think I actually believe them. (laughing) It was such a good night–having people I care about there, and people I’d never met before but who were touched by self-harm in their lives, or sexual abuse, or being queer, or were just interested. I felt so good about people sharing bits of their stories with me, and also all the incredible appreciation and warmth I got from everyone. You all made it an amazing night for me! And the standing ovation–wow. Thank you!!

Roveena was a wonderful singer–such a beautiful voice, and oh, I loved the songs she sang, especially Beautiful! Resh was a fantastic MC, Lena Coakley gave such a beautiful, warm introduction of me (thank you, Lena!), Chris was so calming and aware of things I needed, and Jen was a great speaker and wen-do instructor and got us all to a strong, confident place. And the women from the TRCC/MWAR put out a lovely, incredible spread.

And so many, many friends did so much for me, some last minute–I am blessed and honored that you helped me. Most especially writer Erin Thomas and her husband Aaron, and writer Susan Blakeney, who did SO much for me, including carting a huge number of heavy boxes of books to the launch, giving out door prize tickets and manning (womanning?) the book table, and more! You made the night easier and better. And Debbie Ohi, who took photos of the event, and Nancy who created lovely donation tins for the TRCC. Thank you, all!! And thank you, thank you, everyone who came.

It was a night that I’ll treasure, now. A really good memory to hold on to and look at again. felt happy, and good. It was a night I’ve waited for for a long time. Thank you so much, everyone!

(I’ll be posting pictures later–probably after I get back from ALA.)

June 24th, 2010