Isolation or Inclusion: What’s Dignity Without Belonging?
100 words of Dignity
Isolation is a silent thief, even when laws proclaim your right to exist. In Germany, I have every legal protection as a non-binary, lesbian-identifying person, but what dignity is left when I feel unseen, excluded, and socially isolated? Rights on paper can't fill the emptiness of everyday life. Meanwhile, in the U.S., where the legal framework is often shaky and contested, I felt a deeper connection — a place where my existence was not only tolerated but celebrated. In the end, dignity is not just about laws; it’s about finding where you are welcomed with open arms.
This is just a glimpse of my journey — a micro story of what it means to live between two worlds: one where the law protects me, but society isolates me, and another where the legal ground is shaky, but the people feel like home. If this resonates with you, dive deeper into the full story, where I explore how dignity goes beyond laws and is found in the simple act of being truly seen and accepted.
Let’s talk about the places that make us feel alive, and where we find our sense of belonging. Read more and join the conversation. 🌈
And if you’re curious about the deeper historical context behind these feelings, I’d love to share more. There’s so much more behind this paradox. I could share the historical context that helped me finally understand these feelings, if there’s interest. For four decades, I’ve longed to live “overseas,” but I still haven’t found a way to make that dream come true. Every journey I’ve taken has only fueled that longing, confirming what my heart has always known — that I belong somewhere else, somewhere that feels more like home. At 57, without a financial safety net, I’m exploring how to make this move a reality. It’s not easy, but it’s a dream I’m determined to chase. Are you with me as I try?
A shoutout to everyone who started and joined in on this fun 100-words-a-day practice! Distilling thoughts into just 100 words is no easy task, but I’m grateful to share this space with such great company.
Parsing out 100 words from larger pieces is no easy feat. I’m grateful to be in good company while doing this.
If you'd like to join them feel free—this is happening all month long!
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