Invisible, but Not Absent

Backstroke & Breakthroughs – Post #2

In high school, I moved right before my junior year, from Euclid to Warrensville. New hallways. New faces. New rhythm. And somehow, even with hundreds of students around me, I felt invisible.

Teachers saw what they expected: another quiet Black kid in the back of the classroom. They didn’t know I’d already won medals in track and swimming. They didn’t know I was studying late, helping raise siblings, or ranking in the top of my class. I was number 11 out of over 100 students by graduation. But unless you were on the list—or in my shoes—you probably wouldn’t have known that either.

That taught me something early: being unseen doesn’t mean being unworthy.

If you’re reading this and you’ve ever felt overlooked, by your peers, your coworkers, or even your own family, I get it. But trust me, there is something powerful about being underestimated. It gives you space to build in silence, to master your craft without the pressure of applause.

I used that invisibility to fuel my growth. It helped me stay focused. It taught me to create my own voice, because I couldn’t count on being handed a mic.

This blog exists for people like that, for the ones quietly putting in the work. I see you.

This week’s takeaway:
You don’t need a spotlight to shine. Let your work speak. Let your consistency speak louder. And when the time comes—don’t be afraid to take up space.

Until next week,
– J.R.