With a bittersweet mix of emotions that have seemed to found refuge as a ball in my throat, the day has finally come. I'm leaving.
Most life changing experiences happen in mere moments but sometimes if you're lucky enough to experience it, these changes are there waiting for to grab ahold of. You can see them, acknowledge them, and most importantly decide to do whatever it takes to make sure these shifts in the universe happen. I was lucky enough to experience it twice this year. I was apart of electing a President that is sure to go down as the most inspiring candidate in recent history. His election win opened my heart up to the possibility of the power of positive thinking. I have carried this shift of thinking into my own life by getting a job that will allow me to explore my two loves: travel and writing.
For those of you that don't know, I'm about to take voyage on Norwegian Cruise Lines, The Spirit, as a social hostess which is more or less a mistress of ceremonies. I will be traveling through the western Caribbean for four months.
I'm leaving what has been my home for the last four years for something completely out of my comfort zone. I think everyone needs this. With the recession and so many people loosing jobs and loosing everything they feel is close to them, ponder this. What is close to you? As I'm packing my life up to fit two suitcases I'm starting to see clearly what are my necesities. I thought I would share what I have packed...
Adventure. Thank you Jared for inspiring me to see the world. I couldn't go on this Journey without seeing your unyeilding enthusiasm for travel and new experiences. I will take your passion for life and travel with me. I without a doubt will be comforted that in any rough moment I might have over the next four months, you have probably been through too.
Strength. Thank you dad for the strength you have secured in me. On every journey I have gone on you were and are there with advice to make sure I am safe and completely prepared. I feel like I have a unique ability to be dropped in any environment and can adapt in a quick, smart, calm fashion. I follow my instincts and never walk without making sure I know what's around the corner. I walk with confidence and while I might be small, my father made sure I could outsmart anyone who dare get in my way. I get this from my father and I couldn't be more thankful.
Love...Oh mom...Thank you for your unconditional love. I certainly could not and would not be here without you. In any week moment where I felt like I couldn't go on, you were there, just loving me. Sometimes you just need your mom to hug you and love you. Know that no hug or "I love you" was wasted. I will take them all with me and use them as needed while on my trip. Thank you for your openmindedness and thirst for knowledge. I will take your childish enthusiam and zest for truth with me. You don't give yourself enough credit...You are my rock. I love you.
My small living quarters on the ship only allow for two suitcases and that is just fine. You see...I have everything I need right here in my heart.
Right now is the calm before the storm.
Ok...
Take a deep breath...
Let it rain.
