I got two packages today. I got sour patch kids and a signed photo of Sir Patrick Stewart.

These two things are incredibly thoughtful and I cannot express how thankful I am for such kind things.

Sir Patrick Stewart and Star Trek Next Generation have left a powerful impact on me. He, through his effort to expose and deter abuse have left me believing that my experiences are not isolated and I am not alone. He has also taught me that I have a voice that deserves to be heard. Through his role on Star Trek Next Generation he has inspired me to be better. To not stop. To constantly seek new ways to exist and live in the world.

Thank you Secret Santa.

Years ago I got a different signed photo. About a month after that I became homeless. My photo of him ended up going missing. So, this is a nice feeling. I'm in a new apartment, and short on things to put up. My housing is stable and I'm healing. All that was missing was a signed photo of Sir Patrick Stewart. And here it is. A signed photo. Thank you.

Holidays are hard for me. My family isn't the greatest. I love them. They just. I have a hard history with them. They don't really know me and most years I can go without getting a gift. So I sign up for the secret santa exchange when I can. You made this a special holiday. I'm really wonderfully touched. Thank you very much. You're thoughtful and kind. It means a great deal to me.

Make it so.