I live in Seattle. Technically (and financially) that’s been true since January. It just didn’t feel real until now. On Wednesday night I told a very personal story on stage to a small, attentive crowd. About 20% of the crowd consisted of people there to see me. It’s absolutely amazing – in less than a year I have friends in Seattle. I was even surprised by someone who didn’t tell me they would be there. That’s the biggest audience I’ve ever drawn for anything, including my wedding. A sure sign that I not only live in Seattle but I fit in better than I ever did in Memphis.

I started storytelling around the same time I started this blog. My two chosen forms of expression, talking onstage is much harder for me. When I get a chance to tell a story it’s still a challenge just to stand there, let alone try to improve my eloquence. Over time, I’ve gotten better at staying composed under a spotlight. Unfortunately, my ability to tell a story has stayed amateurish at best. For this show, Bawdy Storytelling, the producer helped me craft my tale in a way that made it more coherent and (I believe) more compelling. I forgot half of my details on stage. I did, however, get the point across. Best outcome I can expect.

I got hired for a job with the potential to support me into next year. A break right when I need it. My parents still don’t understand what I’m doing here. Living this life I am slowly realizing the lack of artistic support in my upbringing. No musical instrument was offered. Acting was quelled in favor of decorum. My singing was silenced like an alarm clock. My writing was only praised if it got a good grade. The whole art-won’t-earn-a-living mentality runs rampant in our bloodline. A practical truth for most people, not everyone can be a diamond in the rough. Diamonds are formed under intense pressure.  After years of repression I’m still only a sapphire clambering out of the ashes.

I got a chance to see Garrison Keillor speak on Tuesday night. I’m still amazed that his last name doesn’t cue the red spellcheck squiggle. I guess that’s the highest level of fame anyone can hope for in today’s world. The complimentary ticket was a perfect surprise at the exact time I needed escape. I even met a lovely redhead at the show. The ability of one man to captivate an entire audience with joy and laughter while most of Seattle is in mourning. The sheltered PNW liberals up here are taking the election pretty hard.