I had to cut out close and not do close family too so I can relate to that even if it "only was for the money."
And I agree with you, even if I hyde for several reasons, online behind different identities (Thanks Facebook & nasty people) in my offline life I can't & I won't anymore. I may stick out with my masculine associated bodytype, my punky goth girl self representation, my book narration voice somewhere in between but I won't hide who I am in my heart & to the lack of a better word soul anymore (maybe Essence would fit).
I try to be as positive as I can even if my depression ways me down it hasn't crushed me in over 30 years & my last how many there may it won't.
I want people to feel safe around me not liked, accepted but also hold to a level of decency. It made my "friend list" small but my actual friends are closer than ever.
I am happy that you found your way and that you feel better with it.💚🫂