We’re looking forward to introducing you to AP The Sunrise. Check out our conversation below.
Hi AP, thank you so much for taking time out of your busy day to share your story, experiences and insights with our readers. Let’s jump right in with an interesting one: What battle are you avoiding?
I feel like recently I’ve been avoiding true reconciliation with myself because I won’t talk to my father about the pain he’s caused me. I just don’t want to risk losing a relationship with him and if I just keep my mouth shut then we’re fine. That’s not the greatest idea, but I know I’m just not ready for that right now.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Great Day! I’m a nonbinary, singer/songwriter from Atlanta! I’m deeply embedded in the creative scene as an aspiring musical artist, choreographer, photographer/videographer, and author. I pride myself on using creativity to heal trauma and other mental health related issues. I’m currently stepping into my third year of school studying psychology to become a holistic trauma therapist for kids and teens. I’m pretty busy as you can see, but I hope that interests you!
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
My grandmother and my great aunt were my rock growing up! They loved seeing me dance and couldn’t get enough of my writing. They both encouraged me to chase my dreams and be the best version of myself. I grew up religious, even though I don’t hold those specific beliefs anymore, they instilled in me the power of spiritual belief that I hold onto today. I felt the most myself around them while others told me I should be someone I’m not. I’ve always been grateful to them even after their passing because the knowledge I got from them helped me get back to myself when I was lost.
What have been the defining wounds of your life—and how have you healed them?
I’ve struggled with depression and anxiety for as long as I can remember. I think most people do they just don’t talk about it. I think one of the main reasons for my struggles was not feeling good enough in a huge world that made you feel small on purpose. After a certain point, I couldn’t seem to find many significant things about me and ending up in situations that pushed me further into that mindset didn’t help. Eventually, I broke under the pressure of trying to be EXTRAORDINARY and PERFECT. That break was probably one of the greatest things that happened to me. Instead of letting it crush me, I sat in it. I really felt everything I pushed aside. Healing came when I stopped trying to maintain the impossible version of me that others had in their minds and started laughing at my mistakes. Dancing, writing, and singing through my mess did wonders sorting through it!
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
I feel like the entertainment industry doesn’t talk enough about how competitive it is. They show you the success stories to get you interested, but they don’t tell you what you’re giving up for your dreams. Privacy and security being a big one. Your time is another one. On one hand, if you made it, that’s a big win! On the other, you don’t get to truly be you much anymore which I think is a trade off more people should consider.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. What do you understand deeply that most people don’t?
It’s one of those things that people can’t step outside of themselves to understand, but love. I’ve taken on the nonbinary label because of my understanding of connection. I’m a spiritual person so things run deeper for me, but looking passed all that, I feel like the lack of love for others is really getting out of hand. Acceptance comes from love. People dislike, or even hate, themselves and others so much that they allow themselves to act in detrimental ways against our society. True love is an all consuming process that brings understanding by leaving room for the more negative emotions and thoughts. You don’t need to push them down or project them on to other people. You have to love yourself enough to understand and be accountable.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/lilbigap
