Natalie Blake

I have always wanted to help people. That is all I have ever been certain of- I just didn't know how. Over the years, thanks to the certainty of those around me, I have come to acknowledge my gift. My gift for making others feel seen comes from my experience of always having to mask who I truly am. 

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As a mixed-race, neurodivergent woman, I have always been caught in the crossfire of intersectionality. Too black, too white, too intense, too deep, too nerdy, too masculine. 

I was academically gifted without trying too hard, so I proudly wore the "smart one" badge. I took my first college course at 15 and graduated from high school with my associate's degree. I attended the University of Texas at Austin as a junior. I was expected to have it all figured out, even though I had no clue who I was, barely a legal adult. 

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The time between then and now is mostly a blur due to the trauma I endured. An abusive relationship, severe depression, anxiety, eating restriction, self-harm, threats of suicide, and a stay in a psychiatric ward. 

It was A LOT to say the least. 

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In hindsight, I would not trade in those experiences for someone else's because everything I went through led me where I am today. I'm stronger, more resilient, and full of joy. I love this version of me that my murky past has bloomed. I have also been through so much turmoil. It felt like I was sucked into a black hole, and years later, I came out the other side whole again. I want to help as many people as possible, so they don't stay stuck in there forever. 

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I want others to feel seen and heard. Living happier, lighter, and freer means carrying less anger, resentment, and animosity. I know I won't live forever, but my words can. I hope they can help someone just like you. 

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Thank you for being here. 

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Sincerely, 

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Natalie Blake