In writing, especially in dramatic novels (be it romance or mysteries), there is a point when a character removes the mask they wear and reveal their true self – be it in actions, by words or both.

Just as my characters invade my brain before I fall asleep, I jump into their skin, so to speak, to get in touch with them – know how they think, what they are hiding and how they feel – outwardly and inward.

So this week I had a new experience.

In planning this year’s Rotary gala, we purchased some masks to hand out and use as decorations. Our theme this year is “Venetian Night”. When they arrived I was stunned at their beauty. The colors and glittering affects will have people trying to decide which color they want!

A few of us slipped some on to see how we would look.

As the mask closed around my face, I immediately felt the excitement of holding a part of myself safe while parts of my mind rushed to see what side of me I wanted to reveal by wearing the mask.

Did I want to see these sides of my personality come to the forefront: the Clown, the Romantic, the Naughty? But I let the Writer come through to share this experience – to sense what parts of my mind were warring with each other for dominance. I allowed my writer being to embrace the freedom of being a different part of myself for the outside world.

But what about those who wear the mask for self- preservation? To hide the Victim, the Bullied, the Recluse or those that are unsympathetic. To live your life unable to be free from the inside out must be a solitary one.

Now I can understand the mask can be both a lock and a key – it keeps the less liked attributes huddled in the corner. I feel for the people imprisoned behind a mask, and revel with those who are free to be themselves.

Those knowing how it feels are the women and men of the #Metoo movement. They have removed the Victim mask and shouted out loud and clear – NO MORE!

For those still afraid to remove themselves from their self imposed prisons, I encourage you to take that that first step. If you can’t do it by yourself, seek help. It’s time you are free to be you.

Unless you’re a serial killer…

photo by: me!