Matt, this is an extraordinary piece of writing. I’m not sure I’ve ever read such a deeply honest, human and intelligent exploration of so many issues - from addiction, avoidance and sexual and emotional repression to the awkwardness of adolescence, teenage torment, loneliness and courage. That you were not only able to share the scars of intense vulnerability but face down your fears by confronting your past at your old middle school displayed a bravery I am in awe of. It took courage to turn back and run towards the soccer fields. Courage to trespass. Courage to realise you were no longer afraid. And courage to share with the world the truth you have come to understand.
Wow - this was such a powerful piece. You are an exceptionally talented writer, Matt. I paused many times to reread the beautiful, raw lines you've written.
Agree with the other comments - the world needs more of your writing!
Matt, you’re such an incredible writer. I lived each of these acts as I read them.
“Unfortunately, alcoholism was more of a symptom rather than a root cause of what ailed me, and even replacing it with running was still more band-aid than cure.” So many people don’t realise this.
The bit about trying to become invisible in middle school made me tear up.
Outstanding personal writing here, Matt. There’s a balance of wisdom, compassion and ownership that’s inspiring. Thank you for sharing. Hope you keep writing - lotta folks will feel less alone after reading this. Subscribed!
This was such a good piece Matt. Thanks for unexpected shoutout lol but I see how that quote resonated so much for you reading this piece. That was a wild string of events to happen in a row. It’s easy for a smart and sensitive person to internalize all of that, and I commend you for overcoming that heavy burden of shame and giving yourself permission to be light again.
Matt, this is an extraordinary piece of writing. I’m not sure I’ve ever read such a deeply honest, human and intelligent exploration of so many issues - from addiction, avoidance and sexual and emotional repression to the awkwardness of adolescence, teenage torment, loneliness and courage. That you were not only able to share the scars of intense vulnerability but face down your fears by confronting your past at your old middle school displayed a bravery I am in awe of. It took courage to turn back and run towards the soccer fields. Courage to trespass. Courage to realise you were no longer afraid. And courage to share with the world the truth you have come to understand.
Thank you.
Wow - this was such a powerful piece. You are an exceptionally talented writer, Matt. I paused many times to reread the beautiful, raw lines you've written.
Agree with the other comments - the world needs more of your writing!
Wow.
Matt, you’re such an incredible writer. I lived each of these acts as I read them.
“Unfortunately, alcoholism was more of a symptom rather than a root cause of what ailed me, and even replacing it with running was still more band-aid than cure.” So many people don’t realise this.
The bit about trying to become invisible in middle school made me tear up.
The world needs more of your stuff.
Outstanding personal writing here, Matt. There’s a balance of wisdom, compassion and ownership that’s inspiring. Thank you for sharing. Hope you keep writing - lotta folks will feel less alone after reading this. Subscribed!
This was such a good piece Matt. Thanks for unexpected shoutout lol but I see how that quote resonated so much for you reading this piece. That was a wild string of events to happen in a row. It’s easy for a smart and sensitive person to internalize all of that, and I commend you for overcoming that heavy burden of shame and giving yourself permission to be light again.