Where Love Heals

Today has been strange, yet wonderful.
Whenever I finish a challenging task—physical, mental, or spiritual—I pause to reflect and ask myself: what have I truly learned?

Six months ago, I left the comfort and security of a company I’d been with since college to work part-time while pursuing my M.Ed. in graduate school. I wanted to chase my dream of working with adolescents. I knew it would be hard, balancing work and school, but I had determination, drive, and the conviction that it would all be worth it in the end.

Studying the human mind and understanding what makes people tick has always fascinated me. Since I was thirteen, I’ve wanted to help others. I remember playing “Doctor” with my friend Timmy and dreaming of becoming a psychologist. Being back in school has been exhilarating—it reminds me how much love I carry in my heart. I know I cannot change anyone else, but I can walk with them through their storms. I want that. I crave that.

The other day, I told my best friend I’m so happy that things are finally coming together for me. But I misspoke. Everything I’ve been through—the good, the bad, the triumphs, and the tragedies—has led me here. It was always my destiny to navigate those experiences, to let go of pain and regret, and to grow into the person I was always meant to be.

The journeys I’ve undertaken have been both incredible and difficult. I’ve learned so much about myself, discovered my strengths, faced my fears, and completed every challenge I set out to tackle. I’ve grown in ways I never imagined. Though it sometimes feels as if I had to walk through fire to get here, my gratitude is immeasurable.

I’ve also learned the priceless value of friends. Their love and support sustain me—I don’t know what I’d do without them. I’ve become grounded, self-aware, and clear about my boundaries. I will never settle again. I will never allow anyone to break me. I am responsible for my own happiness. I will not let the actions of others, nor my past, dictate my future.

I will trust again.
I will fall deeply and madly in love.
I will marry my soulmate and my best friend.

I am not defined by my trauma. I am stronger, wiser, and better because of it. Every scar, every wound, every challenge has shaped who I am. Life is about facing what we think we cannot overcome, conquering fears, and striving to be our best selves. Love is a verb. Everything truly does happen for a reason, and sometimes it is the deepest pain that brings about the greatest transformation. I am living proof of that.

JMS