Around the middle of last year, I had a series of stressful events trigger a very real sense of crisis in me. This is that feeling put to paper, if only so I can both put it behind me and always remember where I'd gotten to from neglecting myself for so long.

In hindsight, the actual issues seem like they should've been trivial, if only a tad frustrating, but given that they caused one or more panic attacks (I wasn't aware of it at the time) it rightly gave pause for consideration, particularly as to why I reacted so adversely to them.

Following some reflection, communication, and lots of therapy, I've gotten to where I am today. While there were many other factors leading up to it, I consider this one event to be the turning point when dealing with my personal identity and considering my transition. I certainly could've benefitted from therapy a long while before then, but I wouldn't have known how to make the most of it without having experienced that crisis first.

Thinking back, there's a lot of what-ifs that spring to mind, but it's not worth considering it any more. I've committed to my path, I feel happier than ever, and at this point there's no better way for me to go than forwards.