Life Happens

Life is full of transitions.

Things change as time passes as do our thoughts and perceptions. The beauty of seeing things through to the finish allow a person to see all angles of life's scenarios. Today with a sigh and a look over one shoulder I continue to tip my hat to life's enduring transitions.

In 2000 I left my home as I started college. I remember the thoughts I had when my parents, sister and brother-in-law drove away from my dormitory. What's next...bitter sweet feelings occur when change touches your heart. But change is a must as we are constantly growing and evolving into the person that we want to be. It's not going to stop.

Later I would move back to Dawson Springs, and then to Nashville and these phases were unique and hold their place in my life. They are marked with triumphs, defeats, gains and losses. The same person evolving in different zip codes. But still there is change.

In the fall of 2008 I made another move to Austin, Texas. A move that changed so many things in my life. For the good of course. Moving was a challenge and it shook me up a little at times. Leaving behind many friends and my family was so difficult but following my heart and dreams were also a priority. I often felt very courageous as every knew day brought new sights, faces, and possibilities.

Life for me is something that I look forward to doing each day. I like to try and see the good in each day and hope that each day I can learn something, improve personally and accomplish the days task. Even still I have days that all of those things might not happen. But on the days that do, I have a real sense of belonging and security among my peers as well as my own conscience.

No matter how hard you try there are always things you cannot fix. Things happen in our lives that are variables and not controls. Things like people dying, failed relationships and losses of all sorts. Even with the best laid plans we cannot escape these instances. But these instances where as life becomes difficult represent our defining moments. The moments that make heroes or friends, the moments that we learn from ourselves that we are stronger than we thought we were. That strange place we find ourselves in that changes our path and becomes the bench mark for future transitions.

In a previous blog, maybe even my first, I discussed the fact that I intended to make this year mine. A year to define myself, set attainable goals, and a year to apply my own creativity and brainpower. A year to look back on with a smile and maybe a tear. My grip on the remaining days of the 365 that I began a few short months ago has tightened as I continue to stay focused on personal growth. But with all of this movement and change there is always a cost. As I look into the future I see many things ahead even though the view is foggy. At this juncture I feel that I am becoming more and more prepared for what lies ahead. If the cost is high I hope the bounty balances it.

I like to encourage anyone to find the best in themselves and others. That is truly the only way to success and happiness. Will you be able to do that every moment of every day? Not a chance! But when you do, you will be so glad that you showed up to play the game that day and life is a funny game.

Change. Here's to that!