af·ter·light (noun) The glow remaining in the sky after the sun has set.
And as used here: The clarity, wisdom, and truth that emerges after we have lived through our darkest moments, the light that only becomes visible once we have survived what we once believed would destroy us.
Why Subscribe?
Like many of you, I grew up in a family where we were taught to hide the truth of our experiences, especially the most painful parts. I wanted a different life, but never had models for how one could overcome their past and become something other than the product of the things that happened to them.
Along my healing journey, I have learned that true bravery is telling our stories in the most honest, authentic, and vulnerable way possible. It means choosing the version of the story that gives us a feeling of unease instead of the one we have no reaction to. It is admitting all of the things we believe to be unworthy and unlovable so that we can face the possibility that we fear most, that we are the only ones creating the stories that we are not enough, and instead, recognizing that all we believe to be inadequate is what is most worthy in us.
This is why I created this space: to share my story as honestly as I can, and to help create a safe space that inspires others to do the same.
Each week, you will receive a “letter from the afterlight”, a glimpse into the lessons and themes occurring in the present through storytelling from my past.
My goal this year is to finish the rough draft of my memoir. Those who choose the paid subscription will receive private updates on the process throughout the year and an advance copy of the book upon publication.
I spent most of my life terrified, doing everything I could to hide from everything I feared. In the last few years, I have learned that fear is something to run toward, to overcome all that we previously believed we were capable of.
The fact that I am afraid to share my life in this way, and that it matters, means it is the right step to take.
It is time to be brave. If you, too, are a person in progress, seeking more than what currently surrounds you, I invite you to join me on this journey.
Subscribe to get full access to the newsletter and publication archives.
Stay up-to-date
Never miss an update—every new post is sent directly to your email inbox. For a spam-free, ad-free reading experience, plus audio and community features, get the Substack app.
Join the crew
Be part of a community of people who share your interests. Participate in the comments section, or support this work with a subscription.
To learn more about the tech platform that powers this publication, visit Substack.com.


