My year began with love. On January 1, 2011, my boyfriend and I decided to begin dating, and no, we didn't make the decision on that day just so that it would be easy to remember. His quirky, goofy and gentlemanly self had me thrown into a whirlwind of fun and new experiences. We've hiked up mountains, made talking chin videos and became addicted to the T.V. show Glee (for me it was all over again). Through all that we've done together, I've developed a love for someone that truly knows how to be himself.
On January 4, 2011, I lost a dear friend to mother nature's seemingly evil demeanor. It has been a long time since I've been so heart-broken. I was heart-broken in 2010, but that just did not compare to the pain I felt when my friend passed away. The pain was radiating from wall to wall within my soul and of those at my Alma Mater. Although that pain was prominent, a strong love and bond between students, faculty, staff and alumni of Oglethorpe University established. Everyone supported each other, no matter their relationship, and I then realized just how much I love the college I attended. I realized that even in the presence of death, love exists and proves timeless. Even today, I glance at my friend's Facebook profile with the desire to not only remember his amazing personality and aura, but to also remember the time when everyone loved each other in the midst of tragedy.
On February 24, 2011, I celebrated my 21st birthday. My sister drove to Atlanta from Tennessee to spend time with me that weekend. Although we practically drowned in many "adult beverages," I managed to think about the fact that I really miss living close to my family. I remembered how much love I have for them and how guilty I feel for being so far away.
Soon after my birthday, I began my job as an Immigration Paralegal at The Fogle Law Firm, LLC. At first, I was skeptical about working there since my previous experience with immigration law was not quite as pleasant. However, after about 10 months of working there, I can honestly say that I have gained so much experience in not only immigration law, but also with customer service, various cultures, and standing up for myself. No matter how crazy some clients may be, I've learned that I cannot let them run me over. I've got to take care of myself, love myself, and save my sanity by saying/doing what I feel is right. I can't succumb to the crazies that think they can do and say whatever they want. I've also met some incredible people that work with me at the law firm. I love them very much and sometimes, I just don't know what I'd do without them.
Sometime in March, my father almost died while having a routine knee replacement surgery. A piece of fatty tissue passed through his heart, and the doctors were able to bring him back. On the phone, my aunt explained to me that everything was okay and that my dad was fine, but since I witnessed my dad go through open heart surgery in 2006, I just couldn't fathom the fact that I was in Atlanta while he was in Reno, Nevada during this whole incident. I took a flight to Nevada the next day, because I realized that I love my dad too much to just let him recover without me there to help him and my mom. Although his usual stubborn self wanted to walk around on an unfinished knee, I had to be there because I love my parents and I want them to be okay. They have given me all that they can, and as a result, I'm on my way to success.
In June, I joined a gym all thanks to a bucket list I made. On the bucket list, one of the items was, "Take boxing classes." After doing a little research, I attended a free boxing class at X3 Sports and signed up right away. I have grown to love boxing SO much. Through taking these classes, I've also learned that I need to show love for myself by partaking in daily/weekly exercise. I feel better both physically and mentally.
In October, I got screwed over by someone that I trusted a lot. I was almost left without a place to live. Through a lot of support by friends and family, however, I was able to get back on my feet and live life normally again. I've learned that no matter how much you think you know someone, you cannot instill all your trust in someone. One of my best friends moved out of state because of this situation, and it really broke my heart. Sometimes you have to be selective with those you trust, even if you're a very nice person.
In December, I made a big decision to stop drinking. I don't really drink that much to begin with, and I do love wine, but I've decided that I really want to take care of my health and prove to myself (and others too, if they're willing to listen) that life as a sober person is much more enjoyable than a life with a few drinks. During my freshman year of college, I didn't drink at all, and I had SO MUCH ENERGY. After about one month of not having a drink, I can already tell the difference. I'll stay up later at night and wake up early in the morning and just feel like a brand new person. As a sober person, I can appreciate the small things in life much more. I've never felt as good as I do now. I believe it has made me less pessimistic as well.
During 2011, I've attended Buckhead Church quite regularly. I also joined a small Bible study group with a very close friend of mine. This year has been one of the most spiritual years of my life, and I couldn't be happier. I really feel that my relationship with God and my love for Him has grown a lot stronger this year, not only because of my regular church and Bible study attendance, but also because no matter what negativity has been thrown my way, I pray about it and am instantly reminded that everything will be okay. I am more at peace and feel no need to stress out about things that I once used to have panic attacks over.
And here I am - sitting, thinking, and reflecting on all of my experiences with love in 2011. It seems that I've decided to take care of myself and love myself more than sharing love with others, but in all reality, when all else is gone, who else will you have? Here's to a brand new year with more experiences in love. Happy 2012, my friends!
On January 4, 2011, I lost a dear friend to mother nature's seemingly evil demeanor. It has been a long time since I've been so heart-broken. I was heart-broken in 2010, but that just did not compare to the pain I felt when my friend passed away. The pain was radiating from wall to wall within my soul and of those at my Alma Mater. Although that pain was prominent, a strong love and bond between students, faculty, staff and alumni of Oglethorpe University established. Everyone supported each other, no matter their relationship, and I then realized just how much I love the college I attended. I realized that even in the presence of death, love exists and proves timeless. Even today, I glance at my friend's Facebook profile with the desire to not only remember his amazing personality and aura, but to also remember the time when everyone loved each other in the midst of tragedy.
On February 24, 2011, I celebrated my 21st birthday. My sister drove to Atlanta from Tennessee to spend time with me that weekend. Although we practically drowned in many "adult beverages," I managed to think about the fact that I really miss living close to my family. I remembered how much love I have for them and how guilty I feel for being so far away.
Soon after my birthday, I began my job as an Immigration Paralegal at The Fogle Law Firm, LLC. At first, I was skeptical about working there since my previous experience with immigration law was not quite as pleasant. However, after about 10 months of working there, I can honestly say that I have gained so much experience in not only immigration law, but also with customer service, various cultures, and standing up for myself. No matter how crazy some clients may be, I've learned that I cannot let them run me over. I've got to take care of myself, love myself, and save my sanity by saying/doing what I feel is right. I can't succumb to the crazies that think they can do and say whatever they want. I've also met some incredible people that work with me at the law firm. I love them very much and sometimes, I just don't know what I'd do without them.
Sometime in March, my father almost died while having a routine knee replacement surgery. A piece of fatty tissue passed through his heart, and the doctors were able to bring him back. On the phone, my aunt explained to me that everything was okay and that my dad was fine, but since I witnessed my dad go through open heart surgery in 2006, I just couldn't fathom the fact that I was in Atlanta while he was in Reno, Nevada during this whole incident. I took a flight to Nevada the next day, because I realized that I love my dad too much to just let him recover without me there to help him and my mom. Although his usual stubborn self wanted to walk around on an unfinished knee, I had to be there because I love my parents and I want them to be okay. They have given me all that they can, and as a result, I'm on my way to success.
In June, I joined a gym all thanks to a bucket list I made. On the bucket list, one of the items was, "Take boxing classes." After doing a little research, I attended a free boxing class at X3 Sports and signed up right away. I have grown to love boxing SO much. Through taking these classes, I've also learned that I need to show love for myself by partaking in daily/weekly exercise. I feel better both physically and mentally.
In October, I got screwed over by someone that I trusted a lot. I was almost left without a place to live. Through a lot of support by friends and family, however, I was able to get back on my feet and live life normally again. I've learned that no matter how much you think you know someone, you cannot instill all your trust in someone. One of my best friends moved out of state because of this situation, and it really broke my heart. Sometimes you have to be selective with those you trust, even if you're a very nice person.
In December, I made a big decision to stop drinking. I don't really drink that much to begin with, and I do love wine, but I've decided that I really want to take care of my health and prove to myself (and others too, if they're willing to listen) that life as a sober person is much more enjoyable than a life with a few drinks. During my freshman year of college, I didn't drink at all, and I had SO MUCH ENERGY. After about one month of not having a drink, I can already tell the difference. I'll stay up later at night and wake up early in the morning and just feel like a brand new person. As a sober person, I can appreciate the small things in life much more. I've never felt as good as I do now. I believe it has made me less pessimistic as well.
During 2011, I've attended Buckhead Church quite regularly. I also joined a small Bible study group with a very close friend of mine. This year has been one of the most spiritual years of my life, and I couldn't be happier. I really feel that my relationship with God and my love for Him has grown a lot stronger this year, not only because of my regular church and Bible study attendance, but also because no matter what negativity has been thrown my way, I pray about it and am instantly reminded that everything will be okay. I am more at peace and feel no need to stress out about things that I once used to have panic attacks over.
And here I am - sitting, thinking, and reflecting on all of my experiences with love in 2011. It seems that I've decided to take care of myself and love myself more than sharing love with others, but in all reality, when all else is gone, who else will you have? Here's to a brand new year with more experiences in love. Happy 2012, my friends!
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