LOVE

I constantly find myself asking, “What’s the point of life?” No one really knows, but I’m pretty sure its to find love. Find it in a sunset, in a good coffee, in walks with your childhood dog, in a brother’s hug, in a good laugh with friends, and finding it in yourself.

As a kid, the idea of love was framed by movies, music, books and your parents, if you had them. As I’ve grown up, my idea of love has changed. It used to seem so simple, so concrete. Today, I can’t say I believe the same.

Of course I believe in love. In fact, I consider myself a hopeless romantic, but that doesn’t skew reality. Love is what makes life worth living. Whether that means to love running, love traveling, love dogs, love an idea, or love someone, just to love anything I think, is what makes life worth all the bad, ugly and sad days.

How do I define such an overwhelming feeling, idea and act? Well, I’d say love is seeing something or someone for what it is or who they are, not what we want them to be or what we want to see. Love is selfless. Love is acceptance and understanding. Love is also challenging and frightening. It’s challenging yourself to be the best person you can be and supporting the people you love to do the same. Love is hard.

It may fade through the rainy seasons of life, but deep down, it will always be there. As naïve as it may seem, I think love makes the world a better place. It frees us from judgment, hatred, bitterness, selfishness, all the things that slowly rot the sole. It brings us back to innocence. When you see kids, you see innocence and love. The purest form of love. Love before its compressed by bias, heartbreak, stress and fear. I think we can learn from kids as much as we think they can learn from us.

For so long I let love take the back seat in my life. I let greed, selfishness, judgement and hatred take control and I almost didn’t come back from that. I make a point to love each and every day now, because it helps me be the person I want to be, someone I can love.

I have a tattoo on my wrist, “F.L.Y.” First. Love. Yourself. I think loving anything is nearly impossible unless you learn to love yourself first. I couldn’t love others or anything else in life the way those things and people deserved to be loved, until I learned to love myself. I had to admit mistakes, forgive myself, and let go of all the ghosts that I let haunt me. Only then, did I find true happiness. I got that tattoo to remind myself everyday that we aren’t promised tomorrow. Choose love over hate, over anything because if today was your last day, what would you choose?

DRY TORTUGAS

For those who love travel, here is an abbreviated version of my latest adventure.

My week of adventure began by flying into Fort Myers, FL, where I met my mom for the drive down to Key West, FL. There is nothing like a packed flight to remind yourself to never take personal space for granted. aha.

The six-hour drive flew by fast by chatting with my mom, and we were thrilled to make it to the dock before sunset. The ocean air revived our souls, as did the beer. As the sun set, our boat captain, John, picked us up on the dinghy for a quick ride to the anchored sailboat, Halia.

Now for the real adventure! Come morning, we set out to Sand Key Lighthouse, where we were fortunate enough to snorkel the most abundant reef formations and swim with nurse sharks chartering the shallows. We then sailed to Boca Grande, where we snorkeled a shipwreck home to Jerry, the Goliath Grouper. I swam through and around the shipwreck like one of the fish. As the day ended, we anchored the boat in the calm, protected bay and enjoyed dinner and a sunset.

The next day, we sailed nine hours to the Dry Tortugas. Nine hours of sailing takes it out of you… Being surrounded by nothing but water all day has a way of humbling you. I was reminded how insignificant and powerless I was compared to the ocean. Oddly enough, I loved that feeling. I felt untouchable and safe and at peace sailing through the ocean currents. A few pods of dolphins waved to us along our way. They jumped and slapped their tails, and we cheered them on while they performed. Dolphins are surprisingly interactive with our energy, which made this encounter one to remember. We even got to jump in and swim side-by-side with them before they departed. They are such amazing creatures.

We anchored Halia right before sunset and were able to give Fort Jefferson an evening tour. Fort Jefferson took 32 years to build. Its intended purpose was a military outpost, but in the three decades it took to make, weaponry had drastically changed, making The Fort of no use. Fort Jefferson was then used as a prison for a short time. A real-life Azkaban. So cool! The Fort has two stories with a rooftop of old canons going all the way around its octagon-like shape. The inside was grass and trees, framed by red brick arches everywhere. It was an architect’s garden. Fort Jefferson also doubles as a bird sanctuary. Hundreds of birds swarmed over the tiny inlet behind The Fort. The Fort made for a great sunset spot, where I watched the sun set behind nothing but the ocean’s horizon.

First thing the following morning, we snorkeled what remained of the fort’s original dock. The old steel pillars underwater made a home for a massive array of healthy coral. Little schools of fish swam under and around the dock, happy to be nestled in their haven. As the sun rose, we sailed a short distance to Logger Head Light House on Logger Key. This desolate island is without buoys to prevent the destruction of its reefs. As respectful tourists, my mom and I jumped off Halia and swam the half mile into shore, snorkeling along the way.

The key was home to a few buildings where the groundskeepers resided. On the windward side of the island, we found an old couple residing in their home away from home. I couldn’t imagine living on such a small island for months with no human interaction. It was a beautiful place regardless. The lighthouse was made of red brick with a white paint wash finish, which was slowly disappearing from wind and water erosion. After I had taken ample photos and severely worsened my sunburn, we returned to the boat to sail back to Fort Jefferson before sunset.

Once we arrived, I dove around the shallows of the fort and retrieved any amiss bricks in the sand. I swam them to shore and stacked them like a mini Fort Jefferson. I loved making something new out of something broken. Reminder: You are never too young to play.

For sunset, my mother and I took to the hammock, enjoying music and laughing about the most insignificant things. You know those moments where you know you won’t ever forget what you had with someone? That was one of them for me. Truly grateful for that.

The next morning, we sailed to Marqueses. This consisted of a small group of islands formed by a meteorite hitting the earth hundreds of years ago. The islands formed in a circle, which made a protected bay inside, sheltering small fish, birds, and tons of hermit crabs. A desolate place. There were ice-cold springs draining into the ocean from the islands, so when walking right on the shore, your feet were refreshed by ice-cold water amidst the heat of the day. All I could hear were the pelican’s wings ruffling as they changed positions in the water. The space was so empty the sounds of the birds seemed to echo.

The next day, Halia took us out of the Dry Tortugas and back to the Florida Barrier Reef where we snorkeled the Western Dry Rocks. I had never seen more barracudas in my life! I also saw the largest angel fish I had ever seen, gently exploring the beautiful canals and caves the reef formations had made here. After a few front flips off the front of the boat, we sailed back to Key West. I rode out those last few hours on the water sitting above the anchor. I felt comforted by the water washing my feet and the sun reflecting on me. A bittersweet afternoon to say the least. As excited as I was to return to the city and its magical plumbing and restaurants, I felt empty. I was leaving behind an entirely different life that people choose to live. It reminded me that we can live any life we want to. It’s never too late.

Sponsored by:

Dramamine

All Day Founders IPA

Please visit the bottom of my gallery to see more photos from this great adventure. Thanks for reading!

PERSPECTIVE

We all possess perspectives, and they can evolve based on our personal experiences. As we mature, our individual life experiences shape our viewpoints. I envision perspective as a framework, similar to the lens through which we view life, like a camera. We have the agency to choose what we wish to focus on. This is why discovering new perspectives holds crucial significance for our personal growth.

During childhood, we often fail to grasp the reasoning behind certain rules or the nuances of life. However, as we encounter different phases of life, we begin to perceive life through new lenses. This allows us to empathize and comprehend aspects that were previously inscrutable. Embracing the challenge of seeing and thinking from diverse viewpoints enables us to perceive the broader canvas or the bigger picture.

Whether we attempt to see the world through the eyes of someone in a distinct profession, of a different ethnicity, gender, or even a separate species, we gain clarity. The issues that we deem paramount in our daily lives diminish in significance, while matters we might have previously overlooked become more profound.

Throughout the years, I've often heard parents say, "You won't understand until you have kids." I'd nod my head, thinking, "Yes, that's probably true." In reality, comprehending their perspective simply required me to view life from a parental vantage point. The same applies to all other perspectives.

The manner in which we frame our experiences in life holds remarkable power. We have the option to adopt positive or negative outlooks, selfless or selfish viewpoints, and closed-minded or open-minded approaches. From my standpoint, perspectives can either liberate us or confine us.

This is why I have always harbored a passion for photography. It allows me to select the frame through which I capture my surroundings. I am particularly fond of macro photography because it affords me the opportunity to spotlight the minute details that often elude our attention in our daily lives. I take photographs from the perspective of a flower, a dog, or even an ant, and I consistently discover beauty in the most unexpected places. This practice is akin to poetry, as it underscores the importance of pausing to appreciate life's subtleties, akin to the adage "stop and smell the roses."

I extend a challenge to you for this week: Seek out a new perspective. Whether it entails trying something novel, immersing yourself in a documentary, delving into a new book, or engaging in a conversation with someone you wouldn't typically converse with, endeavor to adopt a fresh framing of your experiences.

HOME

Home is a realm of familiarity, a sanctuary of love, a haven we can rightfully call our own. It can assume a multitude of forms, which is why the concept and sentiment of home hold such profound significance. As a society, it appears we often orient our lives around the pursuit of this sense of belonging and the creation of our personal havens.

In childhood, the presence of a secure and nurturing home is paramount. Reflecting on my own upbringing, I confess I took every roof over my head for granted. I didn't merely take for granted the physical shelter and the bed I slept in, but also the cherished occupants and possessions that filled that space – my pets, my family, my personal domain, and even the sustenance I consumed – all were regarded as entitlements, rarely questioned.

Irrespective of one's circumstances, it remains imperative to cultivate gratitude and learn to appreciate the small wonders within our homes. It's essential to recognize that there are individuals who have grown up without the luxury of a place to call home, and some who continue to endure homelessness. This acknowledgment should prompt us to appreciate the simplest of comforts – a cozy reading nook or a favorite spot for napping, a beloved rug where we share moments with our pets, a thriving houseplant, the pleasure of great-tasting tap water, or a window that bathes our space in radiant light. The list is endless.

The concept of home is dynamic and often undergoes transformations as we journey through life. For instance, military children may experience the nomadic lifestyle of moving from state to state, while children of divorce may shuttle between households, and foster children may find themselves placed in the care of unfamiliar families. Even if one's upbringing is characterized by a single home, the course of life may lead to new beginnings, such as establishing a college residence or relocating to another city for work. Eventually, one might create a family and fashion a home of their own.

Much like many other aspects of life, home is what we mold it to be. Regardless of where 'home' currently resides, take solace in the knowledge that you possess a place to call your own. If you share your home with others, remain cognizant of how your actions and words can shape the atmosphere and perception of home for those around you.

So, what is the true essence of home? To me, home is not confined to a physical space but is rather an emotional state. If we were to define it by feelings of acceptance, love, comfort, familiarity, and serenity, then I find I have numerous 'homes.' I find a home within myself, in the memories of my childhood residence, by any body of water, within the walls of a gymnastics center, beside my beloved cat, behind the wheel of my car, and enveloped in the embrace of my cherished ones.

What does 'home' truly signify to you?

SEASONS

In celebration of Texas finally experiencing some cold weather, I wanted to delve into the seasons we are fortunate to witness year after year. Summer, Fall, Winter, Spring – each one conjures distinct memories characterized by unique tastes, scents, and sensations.

Summer evokes memories of sunburns, hastily treated with aloe, half-melted ice cream cones leaving trails down our hands, the lingering scent of sunscreen in the car, and long days punctuated by gradual, warm sunsets.

Fall blankets the ground in a tapestry of red and orange leaves, while crisp air tousles our hair. It's the season of warm pumpkin spice lattes and cozy knitted sweaters wrapped around us like a comforting embrace.

Winter transforms the world with a layer of pristine snow, crunching underfoot as we navigate the cold. It's a season marked by chapped lips and the constant quest for relief, the soft glow of pine-scented candles in the kitchen, and the twinkle of lights adorning every corner.

Spring ushers in fresh dew that blankets the morning grass, inviting us to pick pastel wildflowers. It's a season of birdsong above our heads and the earnest pursuit of our New Year's resolutions.

Each season serves as a repository of memories gathered over the years. Much like the weather, our lives also cycle through distinct seasons, each bearing its own lessons, people, and places. We often label these "seasons" of our lives, such as childhood, high school, college, and the enigmatic phase of adulting where none of us truly comprehend what we're doing. Each of these life "seasons" conjures specific recollections, from family vacations to stages in our lives when we might have embraced certain styles or interests, or savored particular meals and scents that remain etched in our memory.

I hold a deep appreciation for seasons because they serve as a poignant reminder that change is an intrinsic part of life. This realization comforts me during challenging times, assuring me that whatever difficulties I face are transient. It also fosters gratitude for the ephemeral aspects of life. I take pride in the ability to look back at my past "seasons" with humor or pride, recognizing the distance I've traveled. This perspective fuels my anticipation for future life "seasons," whether it entails a new job, a new home, new friendships, hobbies, pets, or relationships. Nothing remains static. Embrace this truth as a liberating force, allowing it to free you from the burdens of the moment, enabling you to savor the present.

Be thankful for your last "season," express gratitude for your current one, and eagerly anticipate your next.

SOCIAL FREE

When people discover that I've forsaken social media, their incredulous response often echoes, "What do you do without it?" I find this amusing because I recall a time when I was so ensnared by social media that I'd remain oblivious even if a tree fell right in front of me. It's a relentless time sink, effortlessly gobbling up hours in scrolling, stalking, and shopping.

A student of mine couldn't fathom how I could function without it. Yet, in retrospect, I wonder how I ever functioned with it.

Social media felt like quicksand; a place where genuine, unfiltered experiences were rare. It painted a distorted picture of reality, both for me and countless others. When I finally made the choice to sever my ties with social media, it was like a weight lifted from my shoulders, and that metaphorical target on my back vanished.

I'm not trying to vilify social media; after all, as someone with two degrees in the field, I see its value as a potent business tool rather than a personal escape. It's a game-changer for small businesses, accessible to nearly anyone with an internet connection and a device.

Overall, my life has become more authentic and discerning. I'm at ease being my true self and can spot the real from the fake in all aspects of life.

These past six months have been transformative. My mental health has seen remarkable improvement as I've ceased the endless comparisons and yearnings that consumed me. This newfound freedom has granted me ample time for self-improvement and nurturing my relationships. It's made me wholly present wherever I am and with whomever I'm with.

I've reclaimed my passion for reading, drawing, and writing. My time feels purposeful, and I no longer crave constant updates about others.

I share my 'social-free' journey to prompt reflection on our relationship with social media. If you find yourself feeling too busy to do the things you love or connect with the people who matter, perhaps it's time for a change.

This decision ranks among the best I've made recently, prompting a reordering of my priorities and leaving me happier than ever.

Find your own freedom.

GRATITUDE

A gentle reminder to cultivate gratitude for the myriad blessings we often regrettably overlook in our daily lives.

Today, I found myself inadvertently taking another facet of our contemporary world for granted: the Internet. The need to check one's email or engage in a Zoom conference suddenly becomes an unattainable luxury. We are, in fact, far more reliant on modern conveniences than we commonly acknowledge. Hence, I find it both humbling and enlightening to express appreciation for seemingly mundane facets of life.

We can all recollect instances when we've indulged in the unwarranted luxury of complaining—whether it pertains to a tepid shower, a limited menu selection, or the occasional grievances we harbor about our personal relationships or employment. Complaining often acts as an impediment to embracing gratitude.

In light of this, I've endeavored to adhere to a personal creed:

"Abstain from complaint, but if compelled, restrict it to matters beyond your control."

I'm acutely aware that many of us are reared in environments where venting frustrations about circumstances we could feasibly alter is not only condoned but expected. Yet, like me, most of us seldom devote the necessary time to relinquish these destructive habits. That is, until the day we gaze into the mirror and confront a persona we yearn to outgrow.

While I can, naturally, only recount my personal journey, liberating myself from this habit required a concerted effort spanning the past three years. Even now, I occasionally detect vestiges of these tendencies resurfacing. Nonetheless, I can declare, with a heart brimming with pride, that shedding this habit has not only metamorphosed me into a more admirable individual but one I would earnestly welcome into my own life.

Breaking free from this cycle of complaint has substantially simplified the practice of gratitude for me. This transformation marked a pivotal juncture in my life, for it enabled me to apprehend life's beauty and ardently articulate my appreciation for it. The wildflowers adorning my jogging path, the elderly couple strolling hand in hand along the boardwalk, and the intricate patterns woven by clouds during a sunset all acquired newfound splendor as I substituted complaint with gratitude. The act of expressing gratitude facilitated the blossoming of love within me, granting me the ability to discern and cherish the subtleties that frequently eluded my notice.

The art of expressing gratitude serves as a potent catalyst for personal growth. Should the pursuit of self-improvement intrigue you, contemplate commencing a gratitude journal. Rest assured, it will not prove a futile endeavor, for ultimately, you will have nourished the seeds of goodness within yourself.

GROWTH

The exquisite facet of growth lies in its non-immediacy. It doesn't manifest instantaneously; it doesn't immediately reveal itself. Instead, it undergoes a gradual transformation over time, a transformation that becomes most conspicuous to those who stand farthest from its origin.

Imagine eagerly awaiting the springtime bloom of a potted plant. If you impatiently fixate your gaze on the seedling all day, you'll observe little change. However, should you go about your daily routine, attending to the tasks and desires that beckon you, and then return to the plant, you may discern a subtle sign of growth.

This is what I find enthralling about the concept of growth. It necessitates a steadfast commitment to progress, an unwavering journey forward, to perceive even the slightest metamorphosis. Without growth, we'd be condemned to a monotonous existence bereft of evolution. How uneventful life would be without its transformative influence! This concept serves as a poignant reminder that we cannot idly wait for external forces or individuals. All manifestations of life embark on their unique trajectory of growth, each at its own pace and in its distinctive direction, irrespective of our impatience or waiting.

My paramount aspiration for the forthcoming year is to undergo personal growth, regardless of its magnitude. I yearn to delve deeper into my passions, acquire fresh experiences, and challenge the boundaries of my comfort zone. My aim is to allocate more time to nature's embrace and chart a professional course that harmonizes with my fervor.

This year, I've compiled a comprehensive list of objectives, a practice I regret not commencing earlier. I've meticulously documented the skills I wish to acquire, the endeavors I aspire to undertake, and the destinations I dream of exploring. I ardently encourage anyone reading this to embark on a similar endeavor. Challenge yourself and take pride in the wealth of accomplishments that await you once you resolve to manifest your aspirations.

I fervently anticipate reflecting upon this narrative a year hence and witnessing not only the evolution within myself but also the transformation permeating the world around me. My aspiration is that my words will instill motivation within you to commence that project which has lingered on the periphery of your to-do list throughout the year, to enroll in that class that has daunted you, or perhaps to set in motion the plans for that long-desired road trip.

For it is through action and exploration that we accrue knowledge, and it is through knowledge that we attain growth.