Although I (half jokingly say) "I haven't done anything with my life" this time of the year and I am not where I would like to be, I do think some good things happened in 2018. I traveled: First to Mexico in March and then to Arkansas in October. Mexico was a firsts of many. Fist time traveling internationally. First time seeing my dad in almost two years. Physically being able to hug him, spend time with him and relearning how to be around each other. First time having an honest conversation, filled with feelings and hard truths. First time being at peace with his addiction, learning that it's a disease and nothing that I do or say will stop him from drinking. First time riding a horse and learning why he loves these animals so much. The freedom you have while riding is indescribable and not a feeling I've ever experienced. First time witnessing true poverty, lack of basic needs like water and at times food. First time experiencing TRUE gut wrenching sadne...
"It isn't that she's faking it, exactly, but part of her is always holding back" Orphan Train by Christina Baker Kline. I read this passage and it hit me to the core. When do we reach the point in our adulthood where we become fully accepting of who we are? The point where we are no longer putting a facade in order to conform, fit in or be liked? The point when we are comfortable being "us" and not hold back for fear of not being accepted for who we are? The point where we don't hold back and live our lives unapologetically? For some, it may take years. For others, it may come sooner rather than later. For me, I feel like I reached that point this year at the ripe age of 26. I'm no longer basing my self worth on the validation of others. I'm no longer holding back on expressing my hobbies and interests in order to seem more appealing, be more liked or conform to the norm. I am no longer apologizing for my core beliefs, values and moral...