Between the Canyons: Embracing the Lion*ess Within
About Me
Iâm a neurodiverse, non-binary storyteller, creator, and passionate explorer, navigating the many canyons of my life to rediscover and reclaim my authentic self. My journey is a constant exploration of the untamed wilderness of experienceâtraversing the rugged terrains of trauma, societal conditioning, and the complex intersections of privilege and oppression.
Though I am a white, mostly female-presenting person in Germany, my lived experience reveals a far more intricate story. I have faced discrimination on more than eight of the eleven recognized grounds, including gender, neurodiversity, mental health, and appearance. I have always been very aware of difference, often feeling defined by my otherness, such as the thousands of freckles on my skin that have led to being called out many times. My existence doesnât fit neatly into the boxes that society offers. I know what it means to live in the in-between spaces, where categories blur and definitions feel too tight.
The canyon of my life is deep, with countless side canyons carved by experiences that have shaped me. At around the age of 10, my true self went into exile, hidden away to survive a world that seemed intent on suppressing it. I grew up in an environment marked by verbal and physical abuse, gaslighting, and emotional control. My needs, desires, and dreams were systematically suppressed by a narcissistic parent, likely with a borderline personality disorder. This created a form of modern enslavement where my flexibility and adaptability became necessary tools for survival.
Today, I venture deep into the hidden corners of my canyon, seeking to unearth the parts of myself that were lost, and to reclaim my true natureâwild and unapologetic, like the lion*ess within me. I practice mindfulness, affirmations, embodiment, Qi Gong, the Alexander Technique, meditation, and self-reflection to support my healing journey. I live in a state of in-betweennessânot visibly disabled, but disabled nonetheless; not fitting neatly into any one category, yet bridging diverse experiences and perspectives.
My curiosity and openness have always driven me to explore beyond the familiar. I have traveled to over 45 countries, meeting people from a wide range of backgrounds and cultures. Iâm fascinated by the diversity of human experience and how our identities are shaped by the wilderness of societal structuresâheteronormativity, patriarchy, misogyny, and beyond. These structures are like rivers cutting through rock, shaping our canyons in ways we donât always understand. If youâre curious about social identity, cultural awareness, or simply looking to connect with others who question and challenge the status quo, youâre in the right place.
My path has taken me through many roles, shaped by the need to adapt. I have worked in administration, programming, system administration, teaching computer science, purchasing, sales, marketing, human resources, research and development, strategic planning, and consulting. These roles were largely determined by my formal education, but my true passions have always been elsewhere: in fostering diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging; in advocating for social justice; in writing; in connecting with people; and in contributing to a more compassionate, inclusive world free from discrimination and prejudice.
My work is as varied and expansive as the canyons I explore. As a private chef, I find joy in creating dishes that bring comfort and connection, and I share my favorite recipes that nourish body and soul. As a traveler and photographer, I capture stories through my lens, sharing glimpses of my journeys that reveal the hidden beauty in the worldâs wilderness. As a digital artist, I create works that express my experiences and reflect the spirit of my journey. I am also an avid reader, often diving into books that challenge my thinking and spark new insights, and I enjoy sharing reviews or reflections on the works that inspire me.
Why Subscribe?
If you are drawn to stories of healing, creativity, and the exploration of identityâor if you simply enjoy diverse content that spans personal growth, food, travel, and the artsâyouâll find a home here. My writing invites you to join me in exploring the wilderness of life, embracing the complexity of our individual canyons, and finding strength in our shared journey toward authenticity.
Here, I share personal stories, reflections, and creative expressions that encourage us to venture into the unknown, embrace our inner lion*ess, and challenge the structures that confine us. This is a space for those who feel caught between categories, defined by their uniqueness, and who are seeking to live more fully and authentically.
Get in Touch
I believe in the power of connection and engagement. Whether you have questions, want to share your own stories, or explore potential collaborations, I would love to hear from you. This journey through the canyons of life is richer and more meaningful when we walk it together.
