Thank You.

How wonderful is it to have relationships that ground you when you are lost, lift you when you are down, and lighten your load when the weight of the world is on your shoulders.

Honor those relationships. Cherish them.

It is far too easy to tell yourself you will call tomorrow, wish someone a happy birthday next year, or put off plans when your bed looks particularly comfortable. It is especially easy when the isolation can feel so safe and even inviting. Take it from someone who has leaned into self-isolation to avoid rejection and failure for 15+ years - choosing the path of least resistance numbs you. Despite what you might have heard, emotions are not something to be feared or ashamed of if they are "caught", but they are rather a sign of strength. Being vulnerable and open is not for the weak-willed.

Once I made the decision that I would not allow other people's opinions define me, the world opened up. I expected kindness over exclusion. Fear no longer dictated my every move.

What happened you might ask?

I stopped hesitating to call friends and make plans.

I began to say "YES" over "maybe next time..."

I started to laugh and smile every day.

I made a point of holding my head up high and looking people in the eyes.

I ditched the scarcity mindset.

Amid all of the anxiety, overwhelm, and chaos that has enveloped the past year, I have been able to cultivate a newfound sense of gratitude for life’s gifts and respect for myself. This milestone has allowed me to embrace each day, hour, and minute with an open heart and mind. I slowed down just long enough to fully appreciate the people who resurfaced in my life when I needed them the most.

Perhaps it took a pandemic to get me to take a breath and accept the care I now know I deserve.

I am so incredibly thankful that this winding, messy, sometimes strenuous path has led me to my role models, rocks, and confidants. During the most turbulent times, these people always bring a smile to my face. They remind me to be the most authentic version of myself simply by being an unwavering support system with unconditional kindness. They make it impossible not to feel appreciated, loved, and truly seen.

All I can say to those people is thank you. Thank you for waiting for me to catch up and realize you have been there all along.