"Today you are you, that is truer than true. There is no one alive who is youer than you." ~ Dr. Seuss
Everyone has a story. A series of events that adds a little bit of character to every aspect of their life. Things that motivate, excite and bring about meaning.
If you were to ask me five years ago (second semester, freshman year of college) if I would be where I am today, I don't think I would have believed it. I was shy (at first), figuring out how to get involved or with what to get involved in and what I wanted to do with my life.
Looking back now, my life has been a whirlwind. I've done some things I will never forget. There are times when I think my days are too ordinary, lack risk. But there's no way that's actually true. Life's everyday moments will over all have the biggest impact either in my own life or the lives of those around me.
But I can't help but be somewhat surprised by who I've become.
I'm 23 years old. I've jumped out of a plane and flown upside, sideways and barrel rolled in a plane. I've traveled to a city in Oklahoma and Baltimore on trips that have changed my life forever, not only serving others but receiving just as much if not more in return. I just recently applied for a passport and will be traveling to England this summer. Five years ago I was lucky to run two or three miles without my heart pumping out of my chest. In 66 days I will be running my first half marathon. In February I ran 10K road race in below zero temperatures, and I loved it.
At age 21 I was lucky enough to be hired for my first full-time, what-I-went-to-college-for job at The Flint Journal. I am still there today. I found amazing events to get involved in that remind me that it is not all about me. What started as a "that could be fun" moment has taken over much of my creativity. I dare you to ask me about Relay For Life and why I do it. (I've blogged about it in the last few months) I could go on and on about how amazing that event is for those with cancer, those who have lost the fight, their loved ones and anyone who has ever come in contact with any of them. And just recently I've began participating in a monthly Community Cookout in downtown Flint (Check out this blog), which has helped me form friendships with people my age, those not my age and those who are homeless. Thankful.
Let's not forget the most recent semi-impulsive decision — my tattoo. Ask anybody I knew five, 10 or 15 years ago. Never in a million years would they think I would get a tattoo. Sitting here typing I can see the word "Love" permanently scribbled on my arm. Because without love we are nothing.
And I've made mistakes, had struggles and am by no means done learning. But I wouldn't wish them away for anything. Without them, I am certain I would be a very different person. I have realized that who I am is not something anyone can change or should want to.
What an incredible five years. I'm ready to see what the next five have in store for me.
