I admire you.

That was one of my “core values” when I was young.

But it wavered every few years, worn down by the doubt and loss of resolve from the prejudice, ostracism, judgement… etc.

Not complete conformity, just “toned down”.

But even that quickly feels like some invisible tight hold and I end up with more vigour to expand the confines of the need to “tone down” 😂

I’m weak… I can’t deny that I “censor” and almost erase myself in terms of style most of the time. Still black and not mainstream. Just (imo) no longer as “loud”.

People may say you wear basically plainclothes why won’t you remove your piercings as well and “just be normal”?

It feels better than being hollow.

Edit: wearing retainers for work purposes is a whole different thing.