Today has been weird, yet terrific….Upon completion of tedious task, whether physical, mental or spiritual, I always seem to reflect to see what, if anything, I have learned.

Six months ago, I left comfort and security with a company that I had been with since college to work part time in order to attend grad school to finish my M.Ed. so I could finally chase my dreams of working with adolescents. I knew it would be hard to work and go to school but I had determination and a drive for success and it would be worth it in the end.

Studying the human mind and what makes people tick is so very fascinating to me. It’s been my desire since I was 13 years old to help people. I remember playing “Doctor” with my friend, Timmy, and I always wanted to be a Psychologist. Being back in school has been exhilarating. It’s reminded me of how much love there is inside my heart and though I am aware that I can’t change anyone else, I can walk with them through their storm. I want that. I crave that.

The other day I said to my best friend that I am so happy that things are finally starting to come together for me. I misspoke. Everything has happened to get me here. It’s always been my destiny to go through the good and bad times in my past and to learn how to let all of the pain and regret go. In the end, it just made me who I was meant to be all along.

Things I’ve endeavored have been simply amazing as well as tragic. I have learned so much about myself and grown in ways I never imagined. The true definition of hard work, conquering fears and completion of every task I set out to do, and discovering myself fully has molded me into the person that I am today. Though I may feel as if I had to go through hell to get here, words can’t describe how grateful I am for this moment. I’ve definitely learned that my friends are the absolute best ever!!! I don’t know what I’d do without their love and support. I am pretty laid back and easy to please. I have figured out what I will and will not allow, in both my personal and professional life. I will not ever settle again. I will never let anyone break me down. I am responsible for my happiness. I will not let the actions of others or my past interfere with my future. I will trust again. I will fall madly, deeply in love. I will marry my soul mate and my best friend.

I am not my trauma. I am better! Every scar I have makes me who I am. Life is about attacking what we think we can’t achieve..conquering fears and being the best we can be. Love is a verb. They say everything happens for a reason..I believe that with all of my heart. Sometimes it takes the worst pain to bring about the best change. I am living proof of that.

JMS