When You're Sick in Bed

After taking some time to recover from a cold, I returned to the clubs (gentleman & nutrition, respectively) reminded of just how much these communities make me feel seen and supported.

You see, I've always been a bit of a loner. For years, I’ve struggled with social anxiety and depression. Especially when I was in college — I avoided rushing a sorority or even making close friends because the thought of opening up to others & possibly being judged felt too overwhelming. In fact, after all four years of university living, I only have one friend I still keep in touch with from time to time (love you suh, Keyoncé).

In previous workplaces, I often felt like I had to mask my neurodivergence, hiding parts of myself to fit in. But in the places I work now (gentleman & nutrition club alike, but especially in the strip club) I've found a different kind of community — one that embraces my quirks and allows me to be my authentic self.

The strip club is a place I've found a sisterhood I never thought possible. It's a place that’s sparked shared celebrations (break-ups, birthdays, and weddings alike) and has been the breeding ground for some of my best friendships. It's a place where I feel seen, accepted, and supported, even when I'm feeling my most vulnerable. It's a place where many people might assume you wouldn't find genuine connection (considering only a select few even know my real name), and while I’ll admit you won’t experience the most typical workplace culture (I mean, we’ve all seen each other naked for goodness’ sake), it’s where I've found a family, where I can be myself, without fear of being judged or misunderstood.

The strip club dressing room (much like your office break room, complete with snicky-snacks & water cooler) is where I am surrounded by a group of powerful women who understand the challenges of navigating a world that often feels judgmental and unforgiving.

Half the time, the only money I make on stage is because of the girls I work with, and that's because I've built rapport as an O.G. (being one of very few dancers who’ve worked there as long as I have) & I try my best to be friendly and welcoming to every face in the place. And to those who I've met passing through along the way, I've paid it forward, actively fostering that same sense of sisterhood.

So I’d like to take this opportunity to shine a special spotlight on the sexy sisters of my strip club family (dat shit perfect baby😉) & send appreciation to every member of each concentric circle of my personal community.

In steeping in gratitude for the precious people in my life, I came across a poem last week that I’m excited to share with you. It resonates deeply with the theme of sourcing power from your community, a poetic reminder that even when we’re facing challenges, we can still find joy and connection in the people around us — let’s get into it!